Prostate MRI technical parameters standardization: A systematic review on adherence to PI-RADSv2 acquisition protocol

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADSv2) aims to standardize prostate MRI acquisition, interpretation, and reporting.
• Recent concerns question adherence to PI-RADSv2 acquisition protocols in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and assess adherence to PI-RADSv2 minimum technical specifications in published prostate MRI studies.
• To identify factors limiting the widespread adoption of PI-RADSv2 acquisition protocols.

Main Methods:

• A systematic search of medical literature databases was conducted for original studies published after January 2016 on prostate MRI.
• Acquisition protocols and patient enrollment data were extracted and analyzed.
• Technical parameters were evaluated against PI-RADSv2 minimal technical requirements.

Main Results:

• Out of 150 included studies, only 5% reported all PI-RADSv2 technical parameters, and none fully met all specifications.
• Overall adherence to PI-RADSv2 acquisition parameters was observed in 19% of studies.
• Lowest adherence rates were found for T2-weighted in-plane resolution (12%), DWI field of view (40%), ADC map low b-value (27%), and DCE-MRI temporal resolution (43%).
• Only 59% of studies followed recommendations for diffusion-weighted imaging high b-value.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to PI-RADSv2 minimum technical standards is highly variable within the scientific literature.
• Enhanced dissemination of PI-RADSv2 guidelines is crucial for achieving protocol standardization.
• Some PI-RADSv2 requirements may need revision to improve clinical applicability and facilitate wider adoption.