A Universally Sized, High-Resolution and Parallel Imaging Optimized 32-Channel Ultra-flexible Phased-Array for 3T Small Joint MRI

Motivation: Conventional, small joint coils have larger loop sizes, limited z-coverage, and limited elements, yielding insufficient SNR and acceleration capabilities. Goal(s): To optimize a small, flexible coil to accommodate higher SNR, acceleration, and resultant higher spatial resolution for hand/wrist MRI. Approach: A 32-channel universally sized, parallel-imaging optimized coil, employing a staggered layout, was designed with two different-sized flexible dual loops, exceptionally low noise preamplifiers and highly flexible mechanics. Results: Study results demonstrated higher SNR and improved acceleration capabilities for this optimized coil compared to previous prototype and conventional coils. Impact: An optimized small loop coil design, with flexible mechanics, provides improved z-coverage, comfortable fit, high-resolution and higher acceleration for in-vivo 3T hand/wrist MRI.