17O-Decoupled 1H Spectroscopy and Imaging with a Surface Coil: STEAM Decoupling

Abstract 17 O-decoupled 1 H spin-echo imaging has been reported as a means of indirect 17 O detection, with potential application to measurement of blood flow and metabolism. In its current form, 17 O decoupling requires large RF amplitudes and a 180° refocusing pulse, complicating its application in volume and surface coils, respectively. To overcome this problem, we have developed an 17 O-decoupled proton stimulated echo sequence (“STEAM decoupling”) to allow 17 O detection with a surface coil. A high B 1 amplitude is easily generated, allowing complete decoupling of 17 O and 1 H. Slice-selective, 17 O-decoupled 1 H imaging is readily performed and the sequence is easily adapted for localized spectroscopy. Intrinsic correction for variations in B 1 and further compensation for B 1 inhomogeneity are discussed.