Final answer:
Susceptibility artifacts in MRI refer to distortions in the image caused by variations in magnetic susceptibility of different tissues or materials. They can occur due to the presence of objects with different magnetic properties, leading to signal distortions. Techniques like parallel imaging and special reconstruction methods help mitigate these artifacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Susceptibility artifacts in the context of MRI refer to distortions or anomalies in the produced image caused by variations in the magnetic susceptibility of different tissues or materials within the body. These artifacts can occur due to the presence of objects with different magnetic properties, such as metallic implants or foreign bodies, that create local magnetic field inhomogeneities. This leads to distortions in the signal and image quality.
For example, if a patient has a metal implant like a pacemaker or a dental filling, it can cause susceptibility artifacts in the MRI image. The presence of these artifacts can affect the accuracy and interpretation of the MRI scan, potentially leading to misdiagnosis or misinterpretation of the results.
To minimize susceptibility artifacts, techniques such as parallel imaging, advanced imaging sequences, and special image reconstruction methods can be employed. These methods help mitigate the effects of magnetic field inhomogeneities caused by susceptibility variations, improving the overall image quality and diagnostic accuracy.