Fiber-Optic Breathing Mask: An Alternative Solution for MRI Respiratory Triggering

This article provides the outcomes of complex testing of a novel low-cost and safe breathing sensor using fiber-optic technology under real magnetic resonance (MR) examination at 3 T. The sensor consists of the Bragg grating embedded into an oxygen breathing mask [i.e., fiber-optic breathing mask (FOBM)], thus minimizing movement artifacts and preventing MR interference. The obtained triggered MR images were evaluated using both objective and subjective image analysis methods, such as signal-to-noise ratio, contrast-noise ratio, and the analysis performed by radiologists. The system was compared with Siemens Prisma Respiratory Reference based on the navigator technique and pneumatic respiratory belt. Image quality assessment provided by radiologist experts shows that the FOBM approach provides reliable and accurate results since the overall image quality reached an average score of 3.3 ± 0.4, 3.7 ± 0.5, and 3.8 ± 0.2 for FOBM, Siemens respiratory reference, and respiratory belts, respectively.