MRI Image Production: Data Acquisition, Processing and Storage

This course explores the principles and parameters that shape MRI image production, focusing on pulse sequences, k-space filling, and imaging optimization techniques. It covers interpreting and manipulating pulse sequence diagrams, understanding the mechanics of spin-echo and gradient-echo sequences, the steady state, and evaluating advanced methods like single-shot imaging and flow-dependent angiography. It also explores how to optimize scan protocols, improve image quality, and introduces informatics basics and networking.

Topics covered include: Pulse sequence diagrams (including: components, timing, and types (spin echo, gradient echo), spin and gradient echo mechanics, rephasing techniques, weighting, and steady-state principles, inversion recovery and specialized sequences (STIR, FLAIR, balanced gradient-echo, and fast spin-echo techniques), k-space fundamentals (filling, symmetry, frequency encoding, and data transformation), echo planar imaging, black-blood imaging, and angiography methods, medical Informatics and storage systems (PACS, RIS, HIS, MIMPS, networking essentials, and DICOM standards).

1. Demonstrate the ability to identify and describe the components of pulse sequence diagrams, including spin-echo, gradient-echo, and advanced sequences, and how to optimize imaging protocols.

2. Explain the principles of image weighting (T1, T2, and PD) and evaluate the impact of sequence parameters such as repetition time (TR), echo time (TE), and flip angle on image quality and diagnostic utility.

3. Describe the process of k-space filling, data acquisition, and its role in determining image resolution and scan times, as well as techniques like partial echo, single-shot imaging, and parallel imaging to enhance efficiency and reduce artifacts.

4. Evaluate the mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of advanced imaging methods such as inversion recovery, Echo Planar Imaging (EPI), flow-dependent angiography, and black-blood imaging.

5. Define and differentiate between imaging system components (e.g., MIMPS, PACS, RIS, DICOM) and network configurations (e.g., WAN, LAN, intranet), and compliance with healthcare regulations.

6. Assess and adjust MRI parameters to enhance signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), minimize artifacts, and ensure safe use of contrast agents while maintaining compliance with patient safety standards.