A protocol for in vitro proton relaxation studies. EEC Concerted Research Project.

A protocol, referred to as the EEC In Vitro NMR Protocol, is offered for use in the measurement of NMR proton relaxation times of excised tissues and associated materials. The protocol, which has been evaluated in an international trial, designates: (a) The type of information which should be provided in all reports; (b) Tissue handling and storage, including initial manipulation, temperature treatment, and short and long storage of tissue; (c) Instrumental parameters, including pulse sequences for T1 and T2 measurement, appropriate number of data points, and their distribution along the relaxation curve; and (d) Methods of data analysis. The discussion amplifies some of the points with reasons for the choices of conditions made in the protocol.