  Microstrip lines are being used in MR applications due to their unique
properties, such as reduced radiation loss, high-frequency capability, and
reduced perturbation of sample loading to the RF coil compared to conventional
coils. Here, we present the design of the 13-channel hybrid array consisting of
12 Microstrips, 1 volume half birdcage coil placed on the foot/ankle phantom,
and high permittivity materials to cover the maximum area of the subject at
7T/300MHz. We demonstrate using electromagnetic simulations, magnetic field
distribution, SAR performance, and the coupling performance of the array
elements. This work provides an ultrahigh field multichannel RF solution to
lower extremity MR imaging with excellent imaging coverage and field
uniformity.
