Development of an open-source, MRI-compatible grip force sensor for dynamic muscle MRI

Motivation: Synchronising dynamic MRI acquisitions with physical force measurements enables standardised and normalised assessment of muscle activity, but requires ad hoc sensors compatible with the MR environment. Goal(s): Our goal was to develop an open-source, MRI-compatible grip force sensor for dynamic muscle MRI. Approach: Phantom and invio measurements with and without the sensor, with dynamic and anatomical scans, were performed in a 3T MRI to assess sensor compatibility, impact on field homogeneity, and potential SNR deviations. Results: The grip force sensor maintained functionality with an additional low-pass filter installed in the waveguide. The SNR decreased slightly by 3.7 % during the scans. Impact: The low-cost, open-source grip force sensor demonstrated excellent MRI compatibility and therefore appears to be suitable for use with dynamic muscle MRI methods to characterise forearm flexors, with potential applications in the study of myotonic dystrophy.