MRI of the lung (2/3). Why … when … how?

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Proton magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an emerging modality for lung imaging.
• Its utility is recognized as an alternative to X-ray and computed tomography (CT) in specific patient populations, including pediatric and pregnant individuals, or for scientific research where radiation exposure or iodinated contrast agents are contraindicated.
• Limited adoption of lung MRI is attributed to the absence of standardized, clinically tailored protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide non-vendor-specific protocol suggestions for lung MRI on state-of-the-art MRI scanners.
• To facilitate the wider clinical implementation of lung MRI by offering guidance based on current literature and expert consensus.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of existing literature on lung MRI techniques.
• Consensus discussion among experienced lung MRI experts to refine protocol suggestions.
• Development of protocol recommendations applicable to standard 1.5-T MRI systems.

Main Results:

• Successful testing of various MRI sequences in both scientific and clinical settings.
• Lung MRI examinations can integrate both morphological and functional imaging capabilities.
• Demonstrated efficacy in addressing complex clinical scenarios, including mediastinal and chest wall assessments.

Conclusions:

• The provided protocols enable new users to implement lung MRI on their MRI platforms.
• Lung MRI is feasible on modern 1.5-T MRI scanners.
• Standardized protocols enhance the routine use of lung MRI, offering solutions for challenging thoracic conditions and serving as a vital tool for pediatric and scientific applications when CT is contraindicated.