Online MR-guided proton and ion beam radiotherapy: investigation of image quality

Abstract

Abstract Objective. Magnetic resonance (MR) images free of artefacts are of pivotal importance for MR-guided ion radiotherapy. This study investigates MR image quality for simultaneous irradiation in an experimental setup using phantom imaging as well as in-vivo imaging. Observed artefacts are described within the study and their cause is investigated with the goal to find conclusions and solutions for potential future hybrid devices. Approach. An open MR scanner with a field strength of 0.25 T has been installed in front of an ion beamline. Simultaneous magnetic resonance imaging and irradiation using raster scanning were performed to analyze image quality in dedicated phantoms. Magnetic field measurements were performed to assist the explanation of observed artifacts. In addition, in-vivo images were acquired by operating the magnets for beam scanning without transporting a beam. Main Results. The additional frequency component within the isocenter caused by the fringe field of the horizontal beam scanning magnet correlates with the amplitude and frequency of the scanning magnet steering and can cause ghosting artifacts in the images. These are amplified with high currents and fast operating of the scanning magnet. Applying a real-time capable pulse sequence in-vivo revealed no ghosting artifacts despite a continuously changing current pattern and a clinical treatment plan activation scheme, suggesting that the use of fast imaging is beneficial for the aim of creating high quality in-beam MR images. This result suggests, that the influence of the scanning magnets on the MR acquisition might be of negligible importance and does not need further measures like extensive magnetic shielding of the scanning magnets. Significance. Our study delimited artefacts observed in MR images acquired during simultaneous raster scanning ion beam irradiation. The application of a fast pulse sequence showed no image artefacts and holds the potential that online MR imaging in future hybrid devices might be feasible.