Dynamic imaging with multiple resolutions along phase-encode and slice-select dimensions

An implementation is reported of an imaging method to obtain MUltiple Resol utions along Phase-encode and Slice-select dimensions (MURPS), which enable s dynamic imaging of focal changes using a graded, multiresolution approach . MURPS allows one to trade spatial resolution in part of the volume for im proved temporal resolution in dynamic imaging applications. A unique method of Hadamard slice encoding is used, enabling the varying of the phase enco de and slice resolution while maintaining a constant effective TR throughou t the entire 3-D volume. MURPS was implemented using a gradient-recalled ec ho sequence, and its utility was demonstrated for MR temperature monitoring , In this preliminary work, it has been shown that changes throughout a lar ge Volume can be effectively monitored in times that would normally only pe rmit dynamic imaging in one or a very few slices. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.