2D Adiabatic T1ρ Mapping of the Myocardium at 0.55T

Motivation: Adiabatic T1ρ mapping has recently shown promising results for contrast-free detection of scar and fibrosis but has not been demonstrated at lower-field strength, which could potentially make cardiac MRI more accessible and affordable. Goal(s): To develop an accurate breath-held 2D adiabatic T1ρ mapping sequence at 0.55T. Approach: The T1ρ-preparation was optimized for 0.55T in simulations and tested on phantoms and in-vivo with 5 healthy volunteers and 1 patient and compared with conventional mapping techniques. Results: Preliminary 2D adiabatic T1ρ mapping results demonstrate good agreement in phantoms and promising results in-vivo. Impact: Accurate 2D adiabatic T1ρ mapping in a single breath-hold scan at 0.55T for contrast-free detection of scar and fibrosis at lower-field.