Dynamic echo-planar MR imaging of the diaphragm for a 3D dynamic analysis

The purpose of this study was to prove the feasibility of 3D reconstructions of the diaphragm during the respiratory cycle using EPI sequences (EPI acquisition, 270 ms/image, on a healthy subject breathing spontaneously and at 0.1 Hz). Continuously recorded respiratory signal allowed for retrospective synchronization with respiratory phases for reconstruction of successive diaphragm surfaces using a specifically designed software. Displacements, area and volume changes of the diaphragm were quantified. Our measurements were comparable with the data in the literature. Reconstructed surfaces allowed in vivo diaphragm dynamic evaluation in terms of displacements, area and volume variations. EPI has adequate spatial and temporal resolution for studying diaphragm dynamics during natural breathing.