SAR Optimization

Use SAR Optimization to reduce scan time for neuro and C-spine exams, when protocols are SAR limited. It is compatible with all Brain and C-spine coils, Body coil transmitting with the chin as landmark, and the following PSDs:

• Spin Echo
• T1 MEMP
• T2 FRFSE
• T1/T2 FSE
• T1 FLAIR
• Cube and Cube T2 FLAIR
• Silenz: acquire a MRA scan
• PROPELLER
• DW PROPELLER

There are two options:

• 0 = Off
• 1 = On, with the following potential considerations:
  • reduced SAR
  • increased image blurriness
  • decreased SNR
  • decreased spatial saturation
  • increased flow artifact

With Spin Echo and T1 MEMP PSDs, there are three options:

• 0 = Off
• 1 = Mid
  • reduced SAR
• 2 = High
  • reduced SAR more than Mid(=1)
  • increased T1 contrast
  • decreased SNR
  • increased CSF flow artifact