Real-time signal processing techniques in MRI

Due in part to the very high flexibility of image contrast, the applications of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) continue to grow. Advances in data acquisition speed, as facilitated by MRI physics, have provided the motivation for specific real-time techniques. For useful and broad implementation this has required that real-time signal processing methods be used. In this work the principal elements of a real-time MRI system are reviewed, major signal processing techniques presented, and several contemporary applications discussed. Further improvements in computational speed will allow increased sophistication in real-time MRI techniques in the future.