MR Imaging Artifacts in the Head and Neck Region: Pitfalls and Solutions

Emily L Marshall1, Daniel T Ginat1, Steffen Sammet1

  • 1Department of Radiology, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.

Insights

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) artifacts are image features not from anatomy, impacting diagnosis. Understanding MRI artifact causes helps reduce their influence for better image quality and diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Imaging Physics
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) artifacts are non-anatomical features in MR images.
  • These artifacts can originate from patient factors, hardware issues, or signal processing.
  • Artifacts degrade diagnostic image quality and can mimic pathological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the significance of understanding MRI artifacts in image interpretation.
  • To emphasize the role of basic MR physics knowledge in artifact management.

Main Methods:

  • Review of common causes of MR imaging artifacts.
  • Discussion of artifact classification (patient-related, hardware-related, signal-processing-related).

Main Results:

  • Artifacts necessitate careful consideration during image interpretation.
  • Knowledge of artifact origins aids in identifying solutions.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding MR imaging artifact physics is crucial for effective image interpretation.
  • Appropriate adjustment of acquisition parameters can mitigate artifact influence, improving diagnostic accuracy.

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