Evaluation of wave-CAIPI for accelerating MP2RAGE and FLAWS in deep-brain nucleus localization

Motivation: We tested the acceleration method in a clinical setting demanding high-resolution and high-quality structural images. Goal(s): Deep -brain stimulation requires high-resolution 3D MRI sequences. The Wave CAIPIRINHA (Wave-CAIPI) may be expected to significantly reduce acquisition time while changing tissue contrast. Approach: We collected scanning data from 5 healthy volunteers, including conventional MP2RAGE and Wave CAIPI research applications (with acceleration factors of 2x2, 2x3, and 3x3, respectively). Results: Compared with MP2RAGE, the Wave-CAIPI (2Xx2) and Wave-CAIPI (2xX3) sequences provide good tissue contrast while shortening acquisition time. Impact: This new sequence is helpful to the localization of brain structures for pre-surgical planning.