An optimized center-out k-space trajectory for multishot MRI: Comparison with spiral and projection reconstruction

A method for collecting MRI data on a set of rotated trajectories that begi n at the center of k-space is outlined, It is theoretically slightly faster , slightly less susceptible to off-resonance and motion-induced phase, and produces images with slightly better signal-to-noise ratio than methods usi ng Archimedean spiral trajectories, particularly for a short sampling durat ion. It also produces more accurate images than those of projection reconst ruction methods, which are significantly undersampled azimuthally. This met hod may be most useful when imaging areas with large inhomogeneities (e.g., near metallic implants), short T-2 species, or high turbulence (e.g., gas imaging). Magn Reson Med 42:714-720, 1999. (C) 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.