Slice-by-slice B0 Shimming for high-resolution diffusion MRI with an ultra-high performance head-only gradient

Motivation: High-resolution diffusion MRI in high-gradient head-only systems, which is promising for advancing our understanding of human brain microstructure, is still prone to distortion from B0 field inhomogeneity. Goal(s): To reduce B0 field inhomogeneity for improved image quality of high-resolution diffusion MRI. Approach: Dynamic slice-by-slice B0 shimming of 0th and 1st order was implemented in diffusion MRI. Results: Preliminary results showed reduced image shift and distortion of slices at different locations in axial b=0 s/mm2 echo planar image with 1-mm isotropic resolution with dynamic slice-dependent B0 shimming, demonstrating the potential of high image quality of high-resolution diffusion MRI for brain microstructure imaging. Impact: Neuroimaging scientists and MR physicists, who use high-resolution diffusion MRI for studying brain circuits, connectivity, and microstructure, can benefit from improved image quality with reduced distortion from dynamic slice-by-slice B0 shimming technique in high-performance gradient MRI systems.