High‐speed multislice T1 mapping using inversion‐recovery echo‐planar imaging

Abstract

Tissue contrast in MR images is a strong function of spin‐lattice (T₁) and spin‐spin (T₂) relaxation times. However, the T₁ relaxation time is rarely quantified because of the long scan time required to produce an accurate T₁ map of the subject. In a standard 2D FT technique, this procedure may take up to 30 min. Modifications of the echo‐planar imaging (EPI) technique which incorporate the principle of inversion recovery (IR) enable multislice T₁ maps to be produced in total scan times varying from a few seconds up to a minute. Using IR‐EPI, rapid quantification of T₁ values may thus lead to better discrimination between tissue types in an acceptable scan time. © 1990 Academic Press, Inc.