Double Average Parallel Imaging for Optimized Eddy Current Compensation and Steady State Storage in balanced SSFP Imaging

M. Markl, J. Leupold, J. Hennig Diagnostic Radiology, Medical Physics, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany Introduction: k-space segmented time-resolved (CINE) balanced SSFP imaging is widely used in cardiac MR-imaging [1]. Drawbacks include sensitivity to the disruption of the steady state and limitations regarding non-linear k-space reordering which is problematic for SSFP imaging since large jumps in phase encode amplitudes lead to nonconstant eddy current induced phase shifts across k-space and artifacts. An optimized acquisition strategy is presented which utilizes scan time reduction by parallel imaging (PI) for optimized 'double average' (dAVE) eddy current compensation. In combination with a suitable reverse centric k-space trajectory both eddy current induced phase shifts and artifacts from imperfect steady state storage are compensated while maintaining SNR and total scan time of a standard CINE SSFP acquisition.