Evaluation of a Numerical Approach Alternative to MR Thermometry in the Safety Validation of Multi-Channel RF Coils

Motivation: The existing safety validation process for multi-channel RF coils requires MR thermometry tests, which are difficult to carry out. Goal(s): To propose an alternative approach to MRT in the validation process of multi-channel RF coils. Approach: The simulated B1+ error was measured and propagated to the SAR error using Monte-Carlo simulations. To validate this approach MRT experiments were conducted with a 16-channel body coil at 10.5T, and the measured SAR errors were compared against the predicted ones. Results: For two different excitation patterns, measured SAR errors were 36% and 40%, while predicted SAR errors were 49% and 46%, respectively. Impact: The new strategy presented replaces MR Thermometry in the safety validation process of multi-channel RF coils. This approach can simplify and accelerate the development and testing of innovative multi-channel RF coils which are essential for UHF MRI applications.