Split spin-echo acquisition for ultrashort T2* mapping: a simulation study

MRI serves as a non-invasive way of assessing the degree of iron overload. This is done via T2*-mapping commonly performed with muti-echo gradient echo sequences. This approach fails in cases with extreme iron overload where the relaxation times drop down to submillisecond range. A method allowing ultra-short T2* mapping is simulated, employing a temporal acquisition offset in a spin-echo pulse sequence. Two acquisitions are suggested: one – before the spin-echo centre, and another – after, resulting in two different T2*-weighted images, acquired with half-line radial encoding. This method allows obtaining T2*-weighted images with weightings starting effectively at zero echo time.