Dedicated system for msk joint imaging
US8384386B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 10, 2009 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 18, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01R33/3806
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system and method are presented that facilitate imaging of the joints of the upper and lower extremities including, for example, the hip and shoulder as well as sections of the spine, among others. One embodiment of the invention includes a short bore cylindrical magnet with an imaging volume smaller than that of a comparable whole body system, an articulated table that allows placement of the joint to be imaged in the center of the magnet homogeneous volume while maintaining a high degree of patient comfort and openness. The gradient and RF coils may be positioned above and below the patient instead of 360 degrees surrounding the patient. A smaller RF and gradient coil is made feasible because of the reduced imaging volume.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.