Feasibility of a universal parallel transmission RF shim concept for safer imaging of deep brain stimulation patients at 3T

Motivation: MRI of DBS patients remains limited due to safety concerns. Parallel transmission (PTX) techniques show promise but require significant computation time to acquire patient-specific data. A universal concept may improve conditions for clinical adoption. Goal(s): Investigate a PTX technique to assess the potential of a universal RF shim concept to DBS patient imaging. Approach: Use electromagnetic and thermal simulations to predict heating effects by applying single-patient-based solutions to five patient-derived lead trajectories to evaluate universality in proof-of-concept. Results: Preliminary results indicate that the universal PTX safe mode remained effective over five DBS lead trajectories. Impact: A universal parallel transmission concept to safer MRI of DBS patients was studied. The initial results suggest patient-based safe modes may remain effective for a broader DBS patient cohort, supporting further study toward clinical application.