MRI protocol optimization for quantitative DCE-MRI of the spine.

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging Science
• Medical Physics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Quantitative pharmacokinetic modeling (PKM) requires high-quality Dynamic Contrast Enhancement (DCE)-MRI data.
• Optimizing DCE-MRI protocols for spinal applications is crucial for accurate PKM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically investigate and identify optimal DCE-MRI protocols for the spine.
• To evaluate different acceleration and motion compensation techniques for spinal DCE-MRI.
• To determine protocols suitable for quantitative pharmacokinetic modeling.

Main Methods:

• 13 patients undergoing spinal MRI received DCE-MRI using 2D and 3D protocols on a 3T Philips Ingenuity MR system.
• Standard contrast agent bolus (Dotarem, 0.2ml/kg) injected at 3ml/s.
• Evaluated parallel imaging, partial-Fourier, and flow compensation techniques.
• Image quality assessed via SNR, motion artifacts, signal enhancement, T1 map, arterial input function, and PKM fitting.

Main Results:

• Sagittal 3D sequences are preferred for spinal PKM.
• Acceleration techniques increased artifacts, and motion compensation failed due to longer echo times and T2* decay.
• Conventional 3D gradient-echo acquisition without acceleration or motion compensation provided the best quality.
• Prioritize reduced echo time and temporal resolution <5s; increased acquisitions aid in reducing flow artifacts.

Conclusions:

• A recommended DCE-MRI protocol for the spine and descending aorta was established.
• The protocol generates a realistic arterial input function and dynamic data suitable for PKM.
• Conventional 3D gradient-echo sequences are optimal for quantitative spinal PKM.