Optimal control theory for applications in magnetic resonance imaging

TL;DR

This paper applies optimal control theory to MRI to enhance image contrast and signal-to-noise ratio, aiming to push the physical limits of spin dynamics despite experimental imperfections, with potential medical imaging applications.

Contribution

It introduces novel optimal control methods tailored for MRI, enabling improved image quality and efficiency by addressing physical and experimental constraints.

Findings

Optimized MRI pulse sequences for better contrast.

Maximized signal-to-noise ratio within physical limits.

Demonstrated potential for practical medical imaging improvements.

Abstract

We apply innovative mathematical tools coming from optimal control theory to improve theoretical and experimental techniques in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). This approach allows us to explore and to experimentally reach the physical limits of the corresponding spin dynamics in the presence of typical experimental imperfections and limitations. We study in this paper two important goals, namely the optimization of image contrast and the maximization of the signal to noise per unit time. We anticipate that the proposed techniques will find practical applications in medical imaging in a near future to help the medical diagnosis.