A new approach in combined modeling of MRI and blood flow: A preliminary study

We propose a computational model to simulate the physical processes implied in the Magnetic Resonance Images formation in vascularised tissues. A combined model of MRI acquisition and blood flow is presented. The blood flow patterns are modeled using the Lattice Boltzmann Method, and the magnetic resonance experiments follow the Bloch equation. A new algorithm has been developed to compute the local magnetizations transport during the excitation, precession and relaxation steps. First results were compared to theoretical values of phase flow accumulation and amplitude attenuation. Next, the proposed algorithm is applied to simulate MR images in a simple stenosed vessel and in bifurcations. Characteristic flow artefacts are observed.