The Multi-Loop Pile-Up Array: Concept and First Validation Experiments

Motivation: Multiloop coils have been shown to provide higher superficial SNR for a larger FOV than conventional coils. However, an inhomogeneous sensitivity distribution limits their relevance for biomedical applications like skin imaging. Goal(s): Our goal is to overcome this limitation and use the multiloop concept to develop a coil design suited for the needs of high resolution skin imaging. Approach: Three multiloop elements are stacked with partial overlap to form a so-called pile-up array, which is compared to a single-loop reference coil in phantom MR experiments. Results: The multiloop pile-up array shows higher SNR and facilitates parallel imaging in comparison to the reference coil. Impact: A novel RF array concept - the multiloop pile-up array - is introduced. First validation experiments demonstrate high potential for superficial anatomical targets like the skin and subcutaneous vasculature.