Neuromuscular diseases can lead to characteristic changes in the anatomy of motor units (MU). In this study we developed an MR approach to image motor unit activity. In-scanner electrical stimulation of MU was synchronized to a pulsed-gradient spin-echo imaging sequence sensitive to microscopic contraction of muscle fibers. Experimental data was compared to a simple theoretical model and scan parameters evaluated. The spatial pattern of muscle fibers forming different MU was imaged for the first time in healthy controls.
This abstract and the presentation materials are available to members only; a login is required.