Troubleshooting Arcing and loose connection Artifacts

Name
Arcing, RF noise spikes, loose connection, corduroy artifact

Description
Light and dark stripes are seen in the image.

Fig.1: Image space

Fig.2: K-space data

Cause: Mainly due to intermittent corruption of the data or static discharge

Images demonstrate intermittent corruption of the data, typically by electrical problems
(electrostatic discharge between cables). You observe these patterns when a static
discharge or arc occur, or when you have an intermittent connection. In this particularly
you must be having multiple arcing during the digitization of the echo. On the other hand,
a loose cable momentarily prevents the received signal from being digitized causing a
loss of data.

Resolution steps

A- Ask questions (sample questions)

- Was the connector plugged-in tightly before you unplugged and plugged back
in? If yes, return the coil to Sentinelle for investigation

B – Isolate the problem

- Changes in the protocol: pulse sequence parameter, Operator problem, Protocol
problem?
- Mechanical: connection issue?
- Coil defect: arcing?

Remedy
• Disconnect and reconnect the coil connectors tightly
• If the artifacts persist, return coil to Sentinelle for service