Magnetic field inhomogeneity correction in MRI using estimated linear magnetic field map

摘要

A fast and robust method for correcting magnetic resonance image distortion due to field inhomogeneity is applied to spiral k-space scanning. The method includes acquiring a local field map, finding the best fit to a linear map, and using the linear field map to deblur the image distortions due to local frequency variations. The linear field map is determined using a maximum likelihood estimator with weights proportional to the pixel intensity. The method requires little additional computation and is robust in low signal regions and near abrupt field changes. The application of this method is illustrated in conjunction with a multi-slice, T2-weighted, breath-held spiral scan of the liver.