IL246830B2

IL246830B2 - Maneuverable rf coil assemblies for neonate mri, mri-compatible neonate's cradles and carts, mri systems and corresponding methods

Info

Publication number: IL246830B2
Application number: IL246830A
Authority: IL
Original assignee: Aspect Imaging Ltd
Priority date: 2016-07-19
Filing date: 2016-07-19
Publication date: 2023-02-01
Also published as: IL246830B; IL246830A0

Description

246830/2 MANEUVERABLE RF COIL ASSEMBLIES FOR NEONATE MRI, MRI- COMPATIBLE NEONATE'S CRADLES AND CARTS, MRI SYSTEMS AND CORRESPONDING METHOD FIELD OF THE INVENTION [1] The present invention generally relates to the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and more particularly to a maneuverable RF coil assembly and methods thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [2] There is a long felt and an unmet need to provide an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle, cart, and/or MRI-cart-cradle assembly comprising a maneuverable RF coil and methods for both (i) applying an RF coil over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle and (ii) conveniently removing said RF coil from said neonate and safely placing it when it is not required for imaging.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [3] There is provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a maneuverable RF coil assembly useful for being maneuvered at both positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. [4] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a multi-functional maneuvering mechanism for maneuvering an RF coil assembly to and from at least two positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF 1 246830/2 coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said multi-functional maneuvering mechanism comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. [5] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil; said maneuverable RF coil assembly is useful for being maneuvered at both positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. [6] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil; comprising a multi- functional maneuvering mechanism for maneuvering an RF coil assembly to and from at least two positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said multi-functional maneuvering mechanism comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. [7] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention an MRI-compatible cart in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil; wherein said cart and said MRI-compatible neonate's cradle are adapted by means of size and shape to both (i) accommodate said cradle within an MRD open bore whilst (ii) said cart is at least partially accommodated either within said MRD infrastructure or surround the same. [8] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention an MRI-compatible cart in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle, said cradle 2 246830/2 comprises or otherwise in connection with a maneuverable RF coil assembly is useful for being maneuvered at both positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. [9] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention an MRI-compatible cart in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle, said cradle comprises or otherwise in connection with a multi-functional maneuvering mechanism for maneuvering an RF coil assembly to and from at least two positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said multi-functional maneuvering mechanism comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10"

[10] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention an MRI-system comprising an MRD, and a cart, insertably accommodated within or around said MRD's infrastructure, said card comprising or otherwise being in connection with an MRI- compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil. id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11"

[11] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention an MRI-system comprising an MRD, and a cart, insertably accommodated within or around said MRD's infrastructure, said card comprising or otherwise being in connection with an MRI- compatible neonate's cradle and a RF coil assembly maneuvering mechanism; wherein at least one is true: (a) said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate; and/or (b) said maneuvering mechanism is a multi-functional maneuvering mechanism 3 246830/2 comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12"

[12] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method of maneuvering an RF coil, comprising at least two different steps: a step of (i) linearly reciprocating an RF coil assembly for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from a neonate to be MR imaged; and then (ii) tilting said RF coil assembly for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate when said neonate is not MR imaged. id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13"

[13] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method of providing an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle with a maneuverable RF coil, comprising at least two different steps of maneuvering an RF coil: a step of (i) linearly reciprocating an RF coil assembly for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from a neonate to be MR imaged; and then (ii) tilting said RF coil assembly for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate when said neonate is not MR imaged. id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14"

[14] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a methods for both (i) applying an RF coil over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle and (ii) conveniently removing said RF coil from said neonate and safely placing it when it is not required for imaging; comprising at least two different steps of maneuvering an RF coil: a step of (i) linearly reciprocating an RF coil assembly for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from a neonate to be MR imaged; and then (ii) tilting said RF coil assembly for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate when said neonate is not MR imaged.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15"

[15] In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be implemented in practice, a few preferred embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to be accompanying drawings, in which: 4 246830/2 id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16"

[16] Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to one embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., within-the-MRI configuration, namely an arrangement where the coil assembly covers the infant's face, said infant is immobilized to his cradle's tray (105) by means of immobilization suite (105) and straps thereof; id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17"

[17] Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is partially off its CLOSE configuration and partially in its OPEN configuration, namely when the RF coil is retracted, pulled or otherwise maneuvered such that RF coil only partially cover the infant's face; id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18"

[18] Fig. 3 and 4 illustrate a top and side views, respectively, of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is totally in its OPEN (upright) configuration, namely when the RF coil is retracted, pulled or otherwise maneuvered such that RF coil does cover the infant's face; id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19"

[19] Fig. 5 illustrates a top view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its OPEN (partially tilted) configuration, i.e., out-of-the-MRI configuration, namely when the RF coil is retracted, pulled or otherwise maneuvered such that RF coil does not cover the infant's face; id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20"

[20] Fig. 6 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its OPEN (half tilted) configuration, i.e., an out-of-the-MRI configuration; id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21"

[21] Fig. 7 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its OPEN (totally tilted) configuration, i.e., out-of-the-MRI configuration, arranged in a manner that it does not disturb medical personal treating the infants immobilized in his cradle; id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22"

[22] Fig. 8 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., in-of-the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned ON to capsule the infant, latch 107 secures RF coil fixation; 246830/2 id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23"

[23] Fig. 9 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., in-of-the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned OFF to de-capsule the infant; id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24"

[24] Fig. 10 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., in-of-the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned OFF to de-capsule the infant; latch 107 is switched to secure RF coil fixation so that it is temporarily not maneuverable; id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25"

[25] Fig. 11 and 12 illustrate side views of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle assembly 200, according to said embodiment of the invention, comprising a cradle/incubator (100) and a cart (201), wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., in-of- the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned OFF to de-capsule the infant; latch 107 is switched to secure RF coil fixation so that it is temporarily not maneuverable; the assembly is now ready to be maneuvered within an MRD; id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26"

[26] Fig. 13 illustrates a rare view (from a distal end) of the RF coil assembly (101); id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27"

[27] Fig. 14 illustrates a rare view (from a proximal end) of the cradle/incubator, here in its capsuled configuration; id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28"

[28] Fig. 15 illustrates a front view of an MRD (300) having an opening (301), cradle/incubator containing the infant to be imaged is accommodated within said cradle (100), wherein the cart (200) supporting the cradle is located under the MRI; id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29"

[29] Fig. 16 illustrates a front view of an MRD (300) wherein cradle/incubator containing the infant to be imaged is located outside said MRI; id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30"

[30] Fig. 17 and 18 illustrate a front view and top view, respectively, of the cradle (OPEN coil configuration; de-encapsulated arrangement of the flaps) supporting an infant, said infant is in connection with life supporting system, mask, pipes and tubing (3) thereof, affixed to infant's immobilizing suit; and 6 246830/2 id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31"

[31] Fig. 19 illustrates a side view of the cradle (de-encapsulated arrangement of the flaps) and infant's life supporting system, mask, pipes, air balloon (4) and tubing (3) thereof, affixed to the cradle (113) or cart.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32"

[32] The following description is provided so as to enable any person skilled in the art to make use of the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however, will remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide an apparatus for occluding MRI entrance. id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33"

[33] The term 'magnetic resonance device' (MRD), 'magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner, or 'magnetic resonance system', specifically applies hereinafter to any Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) device, any Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscope, any Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) spectroscope, any Nuclear Quadruple Resonance (NQR) or any combination thereof. The term, in this invention, also applies to any other analyzing and imaging instruments comprising a volume of interest, such as computerized tomography (CT), ultrasound (US) etc. The MRD hereby disclosed is optionally a portable MRI device, such as the ASPECT- MR Ltd commercially available devices, or a commercially available non-portable device. id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34"

[34] The term "closed bore MRI" refers to MRI scanner that have a large cylinder-shape tube inside a MRI magnet. id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35"

[35] The term "MRI bore" refers to a large cylinder-shaped tube of a MRI scanner which is designed to accommodate a patient. id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36"

[36] As used herein, the term "neonate" refers to any object or living creature inserted in whole or in part within an incubator. id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37"

[37] As used herein, the term "plurality" refers in a non-limiting manner to any integer equal or greater than 1. id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38"

[38] The term "about" applies hereinafter to a measure being ±25% of the defined value. 7 246830/2 id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39"

[39] Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to one embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., within-the-MRI configuration, namely an arrangement where the coil assembly covers the infant's face or head, or body (e.g., infant's chest, hand, leg etc.), said infant is immobilized to his cradle's tray (lower 105) by means of immobilization suite (Hugger, upper 105) and straps thereof. In one embodiment of the invention, the at least a portion of the cart is made of suitable polymer. id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40"

[40] The terms cradle, bed, capsule and incubator will be interchangeably used herein after to define infant's support and intimate envelope. The terms neonate and infant will be interchangeably used herein after to define a baby, infant, neonate, mature-patient to be imaged, and mammalians (e.g., laboratory animals). RF coil assembly (101) is maneuverable, according to an embodiment of the invention by means of a lever, handle, of applicator. The maneuver is provided manually, automatically or semi-automatically, mechanically, hydraulically or in a combination thereof. id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41"

[41] The maneuver is provided by various means, such as by sliding mechanism (tracks, paths, grooves, train-like tracks etc.), rotation mechanism (oscillating, tilting, and providing a screw- like motion and the like), collapsing mechanism (folding, plaiting, plication, replication; folding, corrugation, jointing, articulation etc.). The linear reciprocation in one step and tilting motion in second step as defined herein and after are one embodiment which is presented as an example of providing a maneuverable RF coil mechanism disclosed and claimed in the present invention. id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42"

[42] The cradle disclosed here comprise, in one of its embodiments, a plurality (namely one or more) maneuverable flaps (See 104 for example) which provides the cradle with a non-capsulated (de- encapsulated) or non-enveloped configuration, were the neonate is laying on his/her support (105) and a free access is therefore provided; and an capsulated (encapsulated), enveloped configuration where the neonate's environment is the incubator's controlled environment, effectively barriered from the ambient (room's- or MRI's-) environment. Optionally, latch (103) secures the RF coil assembly in place and avoids its sliding. id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43"

[43] Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is partially off its 8 246830/2 CLOSE configuration and partially in its OPEN configuration, namely when the RF coil is retracted, pulled or otherwise maneuvered such that RF coil only partially cover the infant's face (1); id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44"

[44] Fig. 3 and 4 illustrate a top and side views, respectively, of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is totally in its OPEN (upright) configuration, namely when the RF coil is retracted, pulled or otherwise maneuvered such that RF coil does cover the infant's face. Optionally, mask (2) and other medical means supplies life support fluids (anesthesia, air, suction, liquids, drugs, water etc.) to neonate (1). It is well in the scope of the invention wherein the cradle, the Hugger, the cart or a combination thereof comprises or in connection with temperature controlling means, air conditioning fluids, humidity adjusters and pipes thereof. id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45"

[45] Fig. 5 illustrates a top view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its OPEN (partially tilted) configuration, , i.e., out-of-the-MRI configuration, namely when the RF coil is retracted, pulled or otherwise maneuvered such that RF coil does not cover the infant's face. id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46"

[46] Fig. 6 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its OPEN (half tilted) configuration, i.e., an out-of-the-MRI configuration. id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47"

[47] Fig. 7 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its OPEN (totally tilted) configuration, i.e., out-of-the-MRI configuration, arranged in a manner that it does not disturb medical personal treating the infants immobilized in his cradle. id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48"

[48] Fig. 8 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., in-of-the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned ON to capsule the infant, latch 107 secures RF coil fixation. id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49"

[49] Fig. 9 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE 9 246830/2 configuration, i.e., in-of-the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned OFF to de-capsule the infant. id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50"

[50] Fig. 10 illustrates a side view of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle according to said embodiment of the invention, wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., in-of-the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned OFF to de-capsule the infant; latch 107 is switched to secure RF coil fixation so that it is temporarily not maneuverable. id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51"

[51] Fig. 11 and 12 illustrate side views of an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle assembly 200, according to said embodiment of the invention, comprising a cradle/incubator (100) and a cart (201), wherein maneuverable RF coil assembly (101) is in its CLOSE configuration, i.e., in-of- the-MRI configuration, and incubator/cradle movable flaps (105) are turned OFF to de-capsule the infant; latch 107 is switched to secure RF coil fixation so that it is temporarily not maneuverable; the assembly is now ready to be maneuvered within an MRD, such as a closed- bore MRI device. id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52"

[52] Fig. 13 illustrates a rare view (from a distal end) of the RF coil assembly (101, according to an embodiment of the invention. id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53"

[53] Fig. 14 illustrates a rare view (from a proximal end) of the cradle/incubator, according to an embodiment of the invention here in its capsuled configuration. id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54"

[54] Fig. 15 illustrates a front view of an MRD (300), such as the commercially available Aspcet Imaging M2-type MRD, having an opening (301), cradle/incubator containing the infant to be imaged is accommodated within said cradle (100), wherein the cart (200) supporting the cradle is located under the MRI. id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55"

[55] Fig. 16 illustrates a front view of an MRD (300) wherein cradle/incubator containing the infant to be imaged is located outside said MRI. id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56"

[56] Fig. 17 and 18 illustrate a front view and top view, respectively, of the cradle (OPEN coil configuration; de-encapsulated arrangement of the flaps) supporting an infant, said infant is in 246830/2 connection with life supporting system, mask, pipes and tubing (3) thereof, affixed to infant's immobilizing suit. id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57"

[57] Fig. 19 illustrates a side view of the cradle (de-encapsulated arrangement of the flaps) and infant's life supporting system, mask, pipes, air balloon (4) and tubing (3) thereof, affixed to the cradle (113) or cart. id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58"

[58] Figures 1-19 thus enable a maneuverable RF coil assembly useful for being maneuvered at both positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59"

[59] Figures 1-19 further enable a multi-functional maneuvering mechanism for maneuvering an RF coil assembly to and from at least two positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said multi- functional maneuvering mechanism comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60"

[60] Figures 1-19 further enable an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil; said maneuverable RF coil assembly is useful for being maneuvered at both positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61"

[61] Figures 1-19 further enable an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil; comprising a multi-functional maneuvering mechanism for maneuvering an RF coil 11 246830/2 assembly to and from at least two positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said multi-functional maneuvering mechanism comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62"

[62] Figures 1-19 further enable an MRI-compatible cart in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil; wherein said cart and said MRI-compatible neonate's cradle are adapted by means of size and shape to both (i) accommodate said cradle within an MRD open bore whilst (ii) said cart is at least partially accommodated either within said MRD infrastructure or surround the same. id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63"

[63] Figures 1-19 further enable an MRI-compatible cart in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle, said cradle comprises or otherwise in connection with a maneuverable RF coil assembly is useful for being maneuvered at both positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64"

[64] Figures 1-19 further enable an MRI-compatible cart in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle, said cradle comprises or otherwise in connection with a multi-functional maneuvering mechanism for maneuvering an RF coil assembly to and from at least two positions (i) over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle at time of MR imaging; and (ii) below or aside said cradle when it is not required for imaging, comprising at least one RF coil and maneuvering mechanism; wherein said multi-functional maneuvering mechanism comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. 12 246830/2 id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65"

[65] Figures 1-19 further enable an MRI-system comprising an MRD, and a cart, insertably accommodated within or around said MRD's infrastructure, said card comprising or otherwise being in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle comprising a maneuverable RF coil. id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66"

[66] Figures 1-19 further enable an MRI-system comprising an MRD, and a cart, insertably accommodated within or around said MRD's infrastructure, said card comprising or otherwise being in connection with an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle and a RF coil assembly maneuvering mechanism; wherein at least one is true: (a) said maneuvering mechanism comprises both (i) a linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate; and/or (b) said maneuvering mechanism is a multi-functional maneuvering mechanism comprises (i) at least one first linear reciprocating mechanism for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from said neonate; and (ii) at least one second tilting mechanism for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate. id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67"

[67] Figures 1-19 further enable a method of maneuvering an RF coil, comprising at least two different steps: a step of (i) linearly reciprocating an RF coil assembly for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from a neonate to be MR imaged; and then (ii) tilting said RF coil assembly for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate when said neonate is not MR imaged. id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68"

[68] Figures 1-19 further enable a method of providing an MRI-compatible neonate's cradle with a maneuverable RF coil, comprising at least two different steps of maneuvering an RF coil: a step of (i) linearly reciprocating an RF coil assembly for approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from a neonate to be MR imaged; and then (ii) tilting said RF coil assembly for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate when said neonate is not MR imaged. id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69"

[69] Figures 1-19 further enable a method for both (i) applying an RF coil over a neonate immobilized within his/her cradle and (ii) conveniently removing said RF coil from said neonate and safely placing it when it is not required for imaging; comprising at least two different steps of maneuvering an RF coil: a step of (i) linearly reciprocating an RF coil assembly for 13 246830/2 approaching or otherwise drawing away said at least one coil to and from a neonate to be MR imaged; and then (ii) tilting said RF coil assembly for placing said at least one coil away from said neonate when said neonate is not MR imaged. 14

Claims

246830/4 CLAIMS

1. A maneuverable radio frequency coil assembly (MRCA) adaptable for use with a neonate cradle, the MRCA comprising: a radio frequency (RF) coil disposed within a housing; a sliding mechanism, wherein the sliding mechanism is coupled to or formed within the housing , the sliding mechanism configured to allow the housing to slide linearly along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the neonate cradle between a first linear position and a second linear position when the housing is coupled to the neonate cradle, wherein the first linear position is located at the same location as the end of the neonate cradle associated with the head of a neonate, and the second linear position is located at a predetermined linear position away from the first linear position in a direction away from the neonate cradle; and a rotating mechanism, wherein the rotating mechanism is coupled to or formed within the housing, the rotating mechanism configured to allow the housing to rotate about the axis between a first rotation position and a second rotation position when the housing is coupled to the neonate cradle, wherein the first rotation position is a position such that were the housing to also be in the first linear position the housing would be capable of receiving at least a portion of the head of a neonate position on the neonate cradle, and the second rotation position is a predetermined rotatable position about the axis.

2. The MRCA according to claim 1, wherein said housing is capable of being moved in a plurality of consecutively maneuverable movements.

3. The MRCA according to claim 1, wherein said housing is capable of being moved in a plurality of positions.

4. The MRCA according to claim 1, wherein at least one of: a. said MCRA comprises a handle configured for maneuvering the housing by a MCRA handler; b. each of said sliding mechanisms and rotating mechanisms is one or more of: an automated mechanism, a manual mechanism, a semi-automated mechanism, and a remote controlled mechanism; c. said MCRA comprises at least one latch configured to secure at least one position of the housing; and 15 d. said MCRA comprises at least one sensor configured to sense one or more of: a structural integrity of said RF coil, a structural integrity of said maneuvering mechanisms, a position of RF coil, a proximity of said neonate to said RF coil, a received RF signal, and a transmitted RF signal.

5. The MRCA according to claim 1, wherein at least one of: a. said RF coil comprises a plurality of RF coils; b. said RF coil is configured to connect to at least a second RF coil; and, c. said RF coil is connected to at least a second RF coil by a maneuverable connection.

6. The MRCA according to claim 1, wherein at least one of: a. said RF coil is one or more of: a solenoid coil, a planar coil, a volume coil, a surface coil, and a quadrature coil; b. said RF coil is a multi-tuned RF coil; and, c. said RF coil comprises a multi-channel RF coil reconfigurable between a plurality of operational modes.

7. The MCRA according to claim 1 wherein said housing is configured to close an opening of an incubator when in the first linear position and first rotation position.

8. The MCRA according to claim 1, wherein said RF coil is a solenoid coil.

9. The MCRA according to claim 1, wherein the housing is not rotatable unless the housing is in a linear position such that when a neonate is located on the neonate cradle, rotation does not interfere with the head of the neonate.

10. The MCRA according to claim 1 wherein: the housing is a structure having a base and a wall, such that when the housing is in the first linear position and the first rotation position, the base is configured to receive at least the portion of the head of the neonate and the wall extends from the base along the axis; the housing has a recess located along the wall, said recess extending from the base of the structure along at least a portion of the length of the wall, wherein the size of the recess is configured to permit life support equipment to extend to the head of a neonate position on the neonate cradle without the life support equipment being inside the RF coil.

11. The MCRA of claim 13, wherein the structure has a cylindrical shape and wherein the wall is a curved wall.

12. The MCRA of claim 1, wherein the sliding mechanism is configured to mate with a sliding mechanism associated with the neonate cradle. 16

13. The MCRA of claim 1, wherein the rotating mechanism of the housing is configured to mate with a rotating mechanism associated with the neonate cradle. 17