Time-varying view angle tilting with spiral readout gradients

The conventional Fourier-transform-based spin-echo sequence with a view angle tilting gradient during data acquisition can correct the in-plane distortion induced by a chemical shift or B0 field inhomogeneity. However, when extended for 3D applications, alternate k-space sampling can be beneficial for reducing the lengthy scan time. As spiral trajectories have high k-space acquisition efficiency, we investigated the applicability of spiral trajectory on a spin-echo view angle tilting pulse sequence. Computer simulations and phantom and in vivo experiments were performed to validate the usage of spiral readout gradients in the presence of a view angle tilting gradient. The results show that as long as the readout time is comparable to Cartesian readout, the resulting images have similar quality. Magn Reson Med, 2012. (c) 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.