Researchers from the Medical University of Vienna have developed a new breast-imaging technique called "panoramic breast MRI" that could improve the use of breast MR imaging as a follow-up examination for suspicious mammography findings. The researchers have designed a prototype MRI coil, called BraCoil, which can be worn like a sports bra. The BraCoil is a vest-like receive-only coil array made of flexible coil elements for 3 T MRI and is suitable for a range of body shapes and breast sizes. The coil enables MR imaging in both supine and prone positions, improves comfort, reduces preparation and acquisition time, and increases the signal-to-noise ratio of the resulting images. The BraCoil has shown promising results in a pilot study, producing up to a three-fold improvement in signal-to-noise ratio compared to standard coils. The researchers believe that panoramic breast MRI could be performed as a follow-up examination for suspicious mammogram findings and could potentially replace mammographic screening for certain subgroups. They are currently conducting a clinical performance study of panoramic breast MRI in patients with breast cancer.
Thu, 13 Jul 2023 08:31:09 GMT | physicsworld.com