The b matrix calculation using the anisotropic phantoms for DWI and DTI experiments.

B-matrix Spatial Distribution Diffusion Tensor Imaging (BSD-DTI) is a novel approach to imaging of the diffusion tensor. By means of the method a spatial distribution of the b matrices is determined and subsequently incorporated into diffusion tensor calculation. This paper presents experimental verification of the method. Statistical analysis of the results shows significant variation of the b matrix components through the slices and spatial b matrix maps depict inhomogeneity of the gradient distribution for MRI scanners equipped with wide bore magnets. The accuracy of the diffusion tensor determination was improved by the factor of about 3 for the isotropic phantom using the Spin Echo Diffusion sequence.