Declutter the MRI protocol tree: Managing and comparing sequence parameters of multiple clinical Siemens MRI systems

An MRI protocol tree on a clinical MRI system is a large database containing hundreds of protocols, each containing multiple sequences, and up to 900 parameters per sequence. Protocol variation between scan sessions or patients must be avoided as much as possible, as it may lead to financial loss and less than optimal outcomes for the patient. Without proper management, protocol variation and errors in MRI protocol trees are easily introduced and may remain undetected, leading to a cluttered protocol tree. This in turn reduces the efficiency of the radiological MRI workflow. We introduce a method and open-source software tools for managing MRI protocols on a sequence parameter level, which can detect deviations and variations in the protocol tree. It can be used offline, away from the scanner console, without disturbing the clinical workflow. These tools help to create a standardized protocol library across multiple MRI scanners, reducing variation and errors, enabling radiology departments to create optimal value for the patient and institution.