Time-Resolved Biomechanics using Spectro-Dynamic MRI: Proof of Principle in the Muscles of the Thigh

Motivation: Measurements of biomechanical tissue properties require time-resolved reconstructions from dynamic experiments. The Spectro-Dynamic MRI framework achieves this by working directly from k-space data. Goal(s): To develop an experimental setup and reconstruction method with which time-resolved biomechanical information can be measured in vivo. Approach: An inflatable pressure cuff deformed the thigh muscles of a volunteer. Time-resolved images and strain maps were reconstructed directly from k-space data using the Spectro-Dynamic MRI framework. Results: Principal strains were obtained for different muscles in the thigh at a temporal resolution of 352 ms. The first principal strain direction could differentiate between muscle structures, indicating different underlying biomechanical properties. Impact: The reconstruction of time-resolved images and strains using Spectro-Dynamic MRI allows for time-resolved measurements of biomechanical parameters during dynamic loads with a straightforward experimental setup. This information is useful for studying the mechanical behavior of tissues.