An Open-face 8-Channel Transceive 32-Channel Receive Array for Human Visual Cortex Imaging at 7T

Motivation: For fMRI studies that do not require whole-brain coverage, high-spatial resolution and a large visual field can be achieved with an open-face coil design. Goal(s): To increase image SNR for high-resolution imaging of the human visual cortex with limited receive channels . Approach: An open-face dual-row 8-channel transceiver array in combination with a 32-channel receive array has been developed. This new hardware provides 3D RF shimming capability, SNR gain in the occipital cortex, and a large visual field. Results: The new coil achieved a 39% SNR increase in the occipital cortex compared to the industry standard 7T whole-brain head coil. Impact: The high gain in SNR will enable high-spatial resolution BOLD signal in the occipital cortex while simultaneously stimulating a large visual field extending far into the periphery, to perform layer-specific fMRI around the blind spot and peripheral visual fields.