  A model-based reconstruction technique for accelerated T2 mapping with
improved accuracy is proposed using undersampled Cartesian spin-echo MRI data.
The technique employs an advanced signal model for T2 relaxation that accounts
for contributions from indirect echoes in a train of multiple spin echoes. An
iterative solution of the nonlinear inverse reconstruction problem directly
estimates spin-density and T2 maps from undersampled raw data. The algorithm is
validated for simulated data as well as phantom and human brain MRI at 3 T. The
performance of the advanced model is compared to conventional pixel-based
fitting of echo-time images from fully sampled data. The proposed method yields
more accurate T2 values than the mono-exponential model and allows for
undersampling factors of at least 6. Although limitations are observed for very
long T2 relaxation times, respective reconstruction problems may be overcome by
a gradient dampening approach. The analytical gradient of the utilized cost
function is included as Appendix.
