SUMMARY
The research of James G. Pipe, Ph.D., focuses on designing technology for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that has real and positive impacts on patient care. This covers a broad scope of applications; however, most efforts target improvements in underlying MRI methods that improve the accuracy and diagnostic content of images while reducing overall scan times.
Focus areas
- Spiral MRI. Dr. Pipe's research team is designing the underpinnings for clinically robust application of a method called Spiral MRI, a much more efficient approach to performing MRI than what is currently used. With success, Spiral MRI will greatly reduce scan times while simultaneously increasing image quality.
- Image reliability. Dr. Pipe works to reduce the variability in image quality often seen in clinical MRI. He is the inventor of PROPELLER, a common method to reduce blurring from patient motion during an MRI exam. Additional innovations to improve reliability target improved methods for data collection and scanner operation.
- High-value MRI. Dr. Pipe works within his field to promote the concept of value in imaging and MRI in particular. This includes efforts to objectively measure the value of new MRI methods, as well as to improve the value of MRI in clinical patient management.
- Novel applications of MRI. Dr. Pipe is interested in novel uses of MRI for improving patient care and impacting health in meaningful ways that make better use of health care dollars.
- General MRI methods. Dr. Pipe has a general interest in innovating new methods for clinical MRI and has created new MRI tools for a wide variety of applications.
Significance to patient care
The goal of Dr. Pipe's research is to collaboratively address the global economic challenges of health care along with the desire for improved patient experience by exploring and promoting the use of MRI to get patients to the right treatment for the best outcome in the least amount of time. The results of his research may also result in less time for the patient in the MRI scanner, fewer recalls for repeat exams and more-accurate diagnoses.
In his field, Dr. Pipe works to build bridges between scientists, engineers and physicians, as well as between research labs and manufacturers, to increase the clinical impact of technology and to more quickly bring innovations to the patient.
Professional highlights
- Chair, High-Value MRI Workshop, International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM)-Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), 2018
- President, ISMRM, 2015-2016
- Chair of four workshops on magnetic resonance data collection and reconstruction (Sedona series), ISMRM 2007, 2009, 2013, 2016
- Chair, 20th annual meeting, ISMRM, Melbourne 2012
- Fellow, ISMRM, 2009