How can eddy currents be minimized during MRI scans?

Eddy currents can significantly affect the quality of MRI images by causing distortions and image artifacts. The correct approach to minimize these effects is through eddy current compensation or pre-emphasis. This technique involves adjusting the gradient coil firing to counteract the unwanted currents that are induced in the conductive materials surrounding the gradient coils.

Eddy current compensation or pre-emphasis works by temporarily altering the timing and shape of the gradient pulses. This ensures that the changes in the magnetic field from the gradient coils do not lead to the unwanted magnetic field changes produced by eddy currents. Essentially, these adaptations help to stabilize the magnetic field during the imaging process, leading to improved image clarity and accuracy.

The other options do not effectively target the issue of eddy currents in the same way. For instance, increasing the TE (echo time) might provide a longer time for relaxation but does not address the root cause of eddy currents. Using open MRI systems typically does not directly mitigate eddy currents since the design of these systems can also lead to their own set of issues. Lastly, reducing the number of gradient switches does not eliminate the eddy currents but merely alters the scan parameters, which can impact the imaging needs and efficiency.