Minimum TR radiofrequency?pulse design for rapid gradient echo sequences

Purpose A framework to design radiofrequency (RF) pulses specifically minimize the TR of gradient echo sequences is presented, subject hardware and physiological constraints. Methods Single-band multiband (MB) RF can be reduced in duration using variable-rate selective excitation (VERSE) VERSE for a range flip angles; however, minimum-duration do not guarantee minimum because these lead high specific absorption rate (SAR). The optimal pulse found by meeting spatial encoding, peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) SAR reduction designs achieved an application this MB cardiac balanced steady-state free-precession (bSSFP) experiment presented. Gradient imperfections their imaging effects are also considered. Results Sequence with low-time bandwidth product (TBP) pulses, as used bSSFP, was up 14%, when TBP slab-selective imaging, 72%. breath-hold exam 46% both TR-optimal framework. importance RF-based correction demonstrated. PNS practical limitation. Conclusion parameters, sequence TR.