A Novel 30-Channel Ultra-flexible Phased-Array for High-Resolution and Parallel Imaging Optimized MR Hand/Wrist/Brachial Plexus Imaging at 3T

Motivation: Conventional hand/wrist coils have larger loop sizes and limited number of elements, resulting in in-sufficient SNR and acceleration capability for imaging small anatomic structures. Goal(s): To develop a small flexible coil for hand/wrist, which improves spatial resolution, SNR and acceleration with flexibility for brachial plexus imaging as well when combined with other coils. Approach: A 30-Channel parallel imaging optimized coil was built with the small flexible dual loop, high impedance internal cable baluns, exceptionally low noise preamplifiers and highly flexible mechanical materials. Results: This study shows higher SNR and improved acceleration capabilities for results for this novel ultra-flexible coil compared to conventional coils. Impact: This novel coil design provides comfortable fitting, high-resolution and higher acceleration for in-vivo 3T hand/wrist/unilateral brachial plexus imaging.