Development of a Novel Vibration Pad for Accurate Renal MR elastography

Motivation: This study aims to develop a vibration pad for accurate renal MR elastography (MRE). Goal(s): MRE calculates the elastogram from the wavelength and amplitude of the propagating wave, hence the development of a vibration pad that can generate coherent propagating waves with sufficient vibration intensity to the kidney located deep in the abdomen would achieve highly accurate renal MRE. Approach: Renal MRE was performed on three healthy volunteers with a 3D-printed vibration pad, and the wave images and elastograms obtained were visually evaluated. Results: Our vibration pad for renal MRE generated coherent propagating waves in the kidneys, resulting in highly accurate elastograms. Impact: The eGFR, a common index of renal function, fluctuates with muscle mass, diet, and physical activity, which can lead to inaccurate evaluation of renal function. Therefore, measuring renal stiffness using MRE could serve as a novel biomarker for CKD.