A Novel Decoupling Strategy for Radiofrequency Array Coils in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Emma Su
November 30, 2025
ISBN: 979-8-89480-841-3
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a vital diagnostic tool used by radiologists, and image quality is heavily dependent on the performance of radiofrequency (RF) coils. RF coils are important components of MRI scanners as they influence signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which is crucial for high-quality MRI images. However, coupling, magnetic field interference between coils, can degrade image quality, which may lead to inaccurate identification of cancerous tumors or damaged tissue. Currently, decoupling strategies such as critical coil overlap are employed to minimize coupling, but critical overlap is unrealistic and difficult to attain, and optimal conditions for decoupling remain understudied. Therefore, I aimed to develop a novel decoupling strategy to improve MRI image quality and resolution in a 2-channel RF coil array. I constructed a large decoupling loop, 15 cm by 7 cm, and a small decoupling loop, 11 cm by 6.5 cm; both designed to completely cover the overlap of a 2-channel RF coil array. The SNR was assessed after image acquisition in a 3T MRI scanner. My findings suggest that the large and small decoupling loop sufficiently decoupled RF coils, achieving a high maximum SNR of 492.7 and 445.2 respectively. Overall, these findings suggest that both decoupling loops can minimize coupling and improve image quality in MRI. Future research should explore decoupling strategies for increased RF coil channels and investigate their applicability with human subjects.
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