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Fat-Water Phantoms for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Validation: A Flexible and Scalable Protocol
Published on: September 7, 2018
Geometric distortion evaluation using a multi-orientated water-phantom at 0.2 T MRI
Jochi Jao1, Mingye Cheng2, Hsintien Lee2
1Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100, Shih-Chuan First Rd., Kaohsiung City, 80708, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Abstract:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has been one of the most revolutionary medical imaging modalities in the past three decades. It has been recognized as a potential technique in the clinical diagnosis of diseases as well as tumor differentiation. Although MRI has now become the preferred choice in many clinical examinations, there are some drawbacks, which still limit its applications. One of the crucial issues of MRI is the geometric distortion caused by magnetic field inhomogeneity and susceptibility effects. The farther the lesion from the center of a magnetic field (off-center field), the more severe the distortion becomes, especially in low-field MRI. Hence, it might hinder the diagnosis and characterization of lesions in the presence of field inhomogeneity. In this study, an innovative multi-orientated water-phantom was used to evaluate the geometric distortion. The correlations between the level of image distortion and the relative off-center positions, as well as the variation of signal intensities, were both investigated. The image distortion ratios of axial, coronal and sagittal images were calculated.
Insights
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) geometric distortion, caused by magnetic field inhomogeneity, can hinder lesion diagnosis. This study quanties distortion using a novel phantom, correlating it with off-center positions and signal variations.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging Physics
- Radiological Sciences
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a vital diagnostic tool, but suffers from geometric distortion.
- Distortion is exacerbated by magnetic field inhomogeneity and off-center imaging, impacting clinical accuracy.
- Accurate lesion characterization is crucial for effective disease diagnosis and treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and quantify geometric distortion in MRI.
- To investigate the relationship between distortion, off-center positions, and signal intensity variations.
- To assess distortion across different imaging planes (axial, coronal, sagittal).
Main Methods:
- Utilized an innovative multi-oriented water phantom for distortion assessment.
- Measured image distortion ratios in axial, coronal, and sagittal planes.
- Correlated distortion levels with varying off-center magnetic field positions and signal intensity changes.
Main Results:
- Quantified image distortion ratios across multiple orientations.
- Established correlations between geometric distortion severity and off-center imaging distances.
- Demonstrated the influence of signal intensity variations on distortion measurements.
Conclusions:
- Geometric distortion in MRI is significantly influenced by magnetic field inhomogeneity and lesion location.
- The developed multi-oriented phantom effectively evaluates off-center distortion.
- Understanding and quantifying distortion is essential for improving MRI diagnostic reliability, particularly in low-field applications.
