Optical motion tracking to improve image quality in MRI of the brain

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain is highly sensitivity to head motion. Prospective motion correction is a promising new method to prevent artifacts resulting from this effect. The image volume is continuously updated based on head tracking information, ensuring that the magnetic fields used for imaging maintain a constant geometric relationship relative to the object. This paper reviews current developments and methods of performing prospective correction. Optical tracking using cameras has major advantages over other methods used to obtain head pose information, as it does not affect the MR imaging process or interfere with the sequence timing. Results show that motion artifacts can be almost completely prevented for most imaging sequences. Despite this success, there are still engineering challenges to be solved before the technique becomes widely accepted in the clinic. These include improvements in miniaturization, marker fixation and MR compatibility.