[Adaptation of a wireless PC mouse for modification of GUI during intervention in an open highfield MRI at 1.0T].

PURPOSE

To demagnetize a PC mouse for interventional use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A mobile version of a wireless optical mouse at 2.470 Hz was modified in ways ranging from the replacement of magnetic components to the construction of new components. The magnetic force (Fm), the induction of susceptibility artifacts, and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were determined. The modified mice at 1.0 T. were used in MR-guided interventions.

RESULTS

A final demagnetization down to 2 % (Fm = 9 N vs. Fm = 0.15 N) was achieved. Operating the device clinically caused no compromise in image quality. From a minimal distance of about 20 cm, even the non-modified mouse did not produce any susceptibility artifacts in gradient recalled imaging. The SNR was not reduced significantly (TSE 228 + or - 22,3 vs. 211 + or - 15; FFE 55 + or - 5,6 vs. 56 + or - 4,3). For over a year the modified mouse proved to be a reliable tool for the interventionalist to manipulate MRI.

CONCLUSION

Relatively inexpensive modifications of a standard USB mouse enable the interventionalist to work independently without a technical assistant and to take immediate advantage of multiplanar MR imaging during interventions.