A 50 mT portable MRI scanner for breast imaging: proof-of-concept imaging implementation

Motivation: The quantity and cost limitations of clinical MRI scanners restrict the widespread availability of breast MRI in breast disease screening. Goal(s): Our goal was to show it is possible to construct a portable breast MRI scanner for point-of-care scenarios. Approach: A racetrack-shaped double-pole magnet was designed with the weight below 850 kg. Custom-built gradient coils, RF coils and active EMI strategy were integrated and tested on in vivo. Results: In vivo breast images were acquired with 1.56×1.56×10 mm3 resolution in 4 minutes to show the applicability of the system for routine breast disease screening. Impact: The constructed 50 mT portable breast MRI prototype has the potential to be used in early screening of breast disease in the future.