Modified Three-dimensional Double-echo Steady-state Echo-planar Imaging with Fly-back Gradients for Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping

Motivation: The selection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a zero-reference can yield significant and interpretable susceptibility measurements in quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM). Goal(s): Our goal is to develop a 3D dual-pathway sequence capable of achieving acquisition of multi-contrast images with a reduced scan time and improving image quality. These images will be used in selecting the zero reference in QSM. Approach: We implement a 3D double-echo steady-state echo-planar imaging (DESS-EPI) sequence with fly-back gradients, designed to generate multi-contrast images while eliminating Nyquist artifact. Results: Our preliminary findings indicate the feasibility of utilizing multi-echo images in QSM and global CSF segmentation. Impact: The use of global CSF as a reference in QSM can enhance susceptibility measurements. The development of our modified 3D DESS-EPI sequence improves image quality, reduces scan time, and shows promise for global CSF segmentation in QSM.