Abstract
Only recently, a new type of steady-state free precession (SSFP) sequence was introduced, termed chimera SSFP. The chimera sequence consists of two alternating SSFP kernels: odd TR-intervals feature a balanced SSFP (bSSFP) type of protocol, whereas even TR-intervals undergo gradient dephasing (non-balanced SSFP) and hence the name. In contrast to the recently proposed sequence, the non-balanced SSFP kernel is played out with minimal TR → 0 and the constraint of identical flip angles for both kernels is discarded. Frequency response profile modifications achievable with the extended chimera sequence are discussed.
