An Open Source 16-Channel Breast Array for Prone and Supine MRI

We report on a 16-channel bilateral breast coil array for high-resolution MR imaging at 3T which can be used for both prone and supine breast MRI. This coil aims to improve signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by positioning the coil array close to the breast. Sixteen 80-mm coil elements made on flexible printed circuit boards were placed on top of a 3D-printed plastic housing modeled to fit many cup sizes. Match, tune, and detune elements were incorporated onto the coil. Phantom and
in vivo
scans were performed to demonstrate the SNR profile and clinical efficacy of the coil. The
in vivo
images for both prone and supine positions show high sensitivity and coverage of the breast. The SNR profile evaluated from the phantom images was relatively uniform throughout the imaging volume. The increased sensitivity of the coils allows for improved accuracy of breast cancer diagnosis.