Multi-band vs. conventional diffusion-weighted MRI of the abdomen in children and young adults

Pradipta Debnath1, Jean A Tkach1,2, Zachary R Abramson3

  • 1Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, USA.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Multi-band diffusion-weighted imaging (MB-DWI) significantly shortens pediatric abdominal MRI scan times. This technique maintains acceptable image quality and lesion visibility, offering a valuable alternative for children and young adults.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Pediatric Imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Background:

  • Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in pediatric abdominal MRI is challenged by motion artifacts due to long acquisition times.
  • Developing faster DWI techniques is crucial for improving patient comfort and reducing motion-related image degradation in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare acquisition time and image quality between conventional DWI and multi-band (MB) DWI for liver imaging in pediatric and young adult patients.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of MB-DWI in reducing scan duration while preserving diagnostic image quality.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of pediatric and young adult MRI exams utilizing four DWI sequences: respiratory-triggered (RTr), free-breathing (FB), MB-DWI with shift factor 1 (MBsf1), and MB-DWI with shift factor 2 (MBsf2).
  • Quantitative analysis of acquisition times, signal intensity, and apparent signal-to-noise ratio (aSNR).
  • Qualitative assessment of image quality, artifacts, and lesion visualization by six blinded pediatric radiologists using a 5-point Likert scale.

Main Results:

  • MB-DWI sequences (MBsf1/MBsf2) demonstrated significantly reduced median acquisition times (43 seconds) compared to FB (84 seconds) and RTr (240 seconds).
  • Conventional RTr and FB sequences yielded higher image quality and fewer artifacts compared to MB-DWI (p < 0.0001).
  • Lesion visualization scores were comparable across all sequences (p = 0.11), with no radiologist preference in 47% of cases; Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) values remained consistent.

Conclusions:

  • Multi-band DWI substantially decreases acquisition time in pediatric abdominal MRI.
  • MB-DWI offers a viable alternative for pediatric abdominal imaging, balancing reduced scan duration with acceptable image quality and diagnostic utility.
  • This technique holds promise for improving the efficiency and patient experience in pediatric MRI.

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