To begin, set up the physiological monitoring system to record breathing curves and real-time gas analysis during imaging. Connect and test the MRI room headphones with the audio signal that guides the subject using an inhale-exhale audio recording. Adjust the playback speed of the audio track.Inhale.Exhale.
Based on the normal breathing rate of each subject.Inhale.Exhale. Next, prepare the scanner bed with a clean headrest, leg support pillow and blanket. Place the unfastened Xenon 129 chest vest coil on the table of the MRI scanner and insert the connector plug of the coil.
For a free breathing study, introduce the subject to the inhale-exhale voice recording for synchronized breathing during imaging. Lead the subject into the MRI room and position them on the scanner bed, lying on top of the open xenon vest coil. Once the subject is positioned, fasten the Velcro straps so that the vest coil is closed, but does not constrict the subject's chest.
For a free breathing study, place a face mask with a pneumatac over the patient's face. Tighten the straps so the mask fits snugly over the nose and mouth without being too tight. After fitting, remove the mask and set it aside for later, leaving the straps behind the subject's head.
Then place two pulse oximeters on both index fingers to continuously monitor heart rate and blood oxygen saturation during the study. Place MRI compatible headphones over the subject's ears. Move the MRI scanner table into the magnet bore so the subject's lungs are positioned in the center of the field of view.
