3D Multi-echo spiral acquisition with model-based reconstruction for fMRI

Multi-echo fMRI is of current interest due to its potential for more accurate BOLD contrast with reduced artifacts. Furthermore, spiral trajectories are advantageous for fMRI because of high sampling efficiency. However, images are susceptible to blurring due to B0 inhomogeneity. In this study, we present a 3D multi-echo spiral sequence with a model-based reconstruction method that combines under sampled spiral data from different echoes for increased sampling efficiency and reduced B0 artifacts. Multi-echo and single-echo spiral fMRI data including T2* maps were acquired and compared at 3T demonstrating the method.