Wireless MRI coils with cloud processing to make scans quicker, safer, and more comfortable
Wireless MRI with a stand-alone, platform-independent wireless integrated radio-frequency/shim coil array and cloud-based data processing workflow
This project builds wireless MRI coil technology and cloud-based processing to reduce cables, cut setup time, lower the risk of RF burns, and improve image quality for people who need MRI scans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11323141 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, the team is designing a stand-alone MRI coil array that sends imaging data wirelessly and uses cloud computers to rebuild images, removing bulky cables that can cause discomfort and heating. They will also add local shim capabilities to correct magnetic field spots in the body that cause image artifacts, which should give clearer brain and injury images. The work involves engineering new coil hardware, wireless data links, and cloud workflows, followed by testing in phantoms and imaging sessions that may include volunteers or patients. Over time, the goal is to integrate this technology into routine MRI exams to reduce setup time and improve diagnostic images.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people who need MRI scans—especially those with burn injuries, head/brain concerns, or who have experienced discomfort or heating from standard MRI coil cables.
Not a fit: People who cannot undergo MRI at all (for example due to incompatible implanted devices) or who only need non-MRI treatments would not benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could make MRI scans faster, more comfortable, and produce clearer images that help doctors diagnose and treat injuries or brain problems.
How similar studies have performed: Related coil and shim advances have improved monitoring and image quality, but wireless transfer of full MRI data for clinical imaging is a newer, largely untested approach that builds on prior prototypes.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Truong, Trong-Kha — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Truong, Trong-Kha
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.