MR compatible spirometer

Introduction: MR compatible spirometer is needed for (i) monitoring of anaesthetized patients and (ii) sequence synchronization and/or image reconstruction. Patient motion is likely to induce motion artifacts (ghosting) in image thus reducing its quality during MRI acquisitions. When breath-hold acquisitions are not possible, as for uncooperative children, an alternative technique is proposed, including anesthesia and artificial breath-hold during image acquisition. This technique involves risks. An alternative to this technique for gating is the measurement of inspired or expired volume of air, with or without associated ECG gating. Furthermore, information about exact air flow could be useful for studying cardiorespiratory interactions. An MR compatible spirometer was integrated on a respiratory mask to have an accurate control of patient’s air flow and lung volume. The proposed sensor could be connected to the respirator in order to monitor patients during MRI examination.