Importance

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Abstract

This invention relates to a method for MR imaging using a moveable RF receiving coil assembly that is swept over the region of interest to be imaged during the imaging protocol. In particular, the method includes: exciting nuclear magnetization in the region of interest by applying radio-frequency (RF) pulses and magnetic field gradients according to a selected imaging protocol, receiving RF imaging signals generated in an RF receiving coil by the excited nuclear magnetization while sweeping the moveable RF receiving coil assembly near the region of interest, wherein the moveable RF receiving coil assembly includes the RF receiving coil and means for repetitively determining a 3D position and a 3D orientation of the RF receiving coil, determining repetitively 3D positions and 3D orientations of the RF receiving coil during the period of receiving of RF imaging signals, reconstructing an MR image of the region of interest from the received MR imaging signals and from the determined 3D positions and 3D orientations of the RF receiving coil. The position determining means preferably includes at least three MR-active microcoils. The invention also relates to a moveable RF receiving coil assembly and to a MR apparatus, both suitable for use in the method of the invention.

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First Claim