BME.01 – Thermally-Polarized Phantom for HP 129Xe (non) Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Elastography

The rising prevalence of respiratory diseases, including asthma, COPD, and lung cancer, and the ongoing repercussions of global health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, pose a significant challenge to public health. According to the World Health Organization, these diseases not only lead to high mortality rates but also severely affect the quality of life. For instance, COPD stands as the third leading cause of death globally, claiming 3.2 million lives annually. The need for early detection to enhance patient outcomes cannot be expressed more, but existing diagnostic modalities like Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), CT scans, X-rays, and PET scans have drawbacks, such as low spatial resolution, radiation exposure risks, and lack of sensitivity. In response to these challenges, our project develops a novel thermally-polarized phantom for hyperpolarized 129Xe MR Imaging and Elastography, aiming to significantly improve the diagnostic process for respiratory conditions. This solution aims to reduce inherent variation in MR Imaging and Elastography across different machines, helping to reduce noise and increase the signal-to-noise ratio of 129Xenon MRIs and MREs. Our design includes a High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) shell filled with a porous EcoFlex sponge. The shell is capped at both ends with HDPE rods. The end-caps help contain 129Xe Gas. A threading on the bottom end-cap provides an attachment point to connect the phantom to the MRE machine while a threading on the top end-cap provides an attachment point for a brass on-off valve. Essential design objectives for the phantom include the diffusion of 129Xe gas into the porous ecoflex, resistance to high-pressure gas leakage, and high SNR when imaged. The verification process of the prototype includes filling it with oxygen gas, then with 129Xe using cryopumps, followed by imaging in a 9.4 T MRI, and SNR calculation. Although we aimed to compare the SNR to an earlier prototype through a T-Test, the attempt to obtain MRI images was unsuccessful due to the phantom’s inability to contain 129Xe for an extended period and maintain stable pressure. Despite these initial setbacks, the potential impact of our work on public health is immense. By overcoming the limitations of conventional lung imaging methods and improving the accuracy and safety of diagnostics, our project has the potential to greatly enhance patient outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and improve the lives of millions worldwide. This endeavor represents an essential step forward in the fight against respiratory diseases, highlighting our dedication to advancing healthcare and making a lasting difference in those affected by these conditions.