Spirometry is a routine tool in pulmonology to challenge lung function. It is sensitive and specific to several common lung diseases. Nevertheless, spirometry provides a global measurement at the mouth that only characterizes the pulmonary response as a whole, and cannot specifically address regional affections. We developed a 3D MRI-based technique to non-invasively perform local spirometry throughout the lung. The final outcome is a 3D map with voxel-wise flow-volume loops over the organ. The potential of this technique is demonstrated by its sensitivity to normal, thoracic, and diaphragmatic breathings and its related regional specificity in a healthy subject.
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