Pulseq on Philips MRI Systems: Unlocking and Validating Open-Source Sequences

Motivation: Conventional MRI vendor-specific sequence development limits research transferability and reproducibility. Harmonized frameworks, like Pulseq, overcome these limitations - but Pulseq was not supported yet on Philips MRI scanners. Goal(s): To develop a fully-compliant Pulseq interpreter for Philips MRI systems, facilitating the use of open-source sequences previously incompatible with these platforms. Approach: Custom adaptation of Pulseq for the Philips R5.4 platform, followed by validation with standard imaging sequences using a field camera and phantom/in vivo scans, and comparison with native sequences. Results: Demonstration of the first Philips-compatible Pulseq interpreter, evidenced by successful scans at 7T, marking a leap in cross-vendor research capabilities. Impact: The successful adaptation of Pulseq sequences to Philips MRI system enables researchers to deploy and disseminate advanced MRI techniques universally, fostering cross-vendor collaboration and accelerating the evolution of MRI technology.