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High-Resolution 2D versus 3D Lumbar Spine MRI Optimized with a Deep Learning Reconstruction Algorithm and Prototype
Meghan Sahr1, Allison Lowe1, Darryl B Sneag1
1From the Department of Radiology and Imaging (M.S., A.L., D.B.S., J.L.C., R.K., E.T.T.), Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|May 4, 2026
Summary
3D lumbar spine MRI with deep-learning reconstruction (DLR) provides comparable image quality to 2D sequences. This advanced technique significantly reduces scan times, making lumbar spine MRI more efficient.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Spine Imaging
Background:
- 2D Fast Spin Echo (FSE) sequences are standard for lumbar spine MRI.
- 3D FSE sequences offer potential benefits, enhanced by deep-learning reconstruction (DLR) and conformal coils for improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare image quality and diagnostic performance between 2D and 3D lumbar spine MRI protocols.
- To evaluate the impact of a prototype conformal coil and DLR on both 2D and 3D sequences.
Main Methods:
- Prospective recruitment of 31 subjects with lumbar curvature for 3T MRI.
- Utilized a 70-element conformal spine coil array and applied DLR to both 2D and 3D protocols.
- Musculoskeletal radiologists assessed T1, T2, and STIR sequences for image quality and diagnostic accuracy, with statistical analysis of interrater agreement and sequence differences.
Main Results:
- 3D sequences achieved a 14% overall scan time reduction compared to 2D, with a 38% reduction for T2 sequences.
- Image quality was comparable between 2D and 3D sequences.
- 3D T2 sequences demonstrated reduced cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow artifact; interrater agreement was consistently good to excellent for both 2D and 3D assessments.
Conclusions:
- Deep-learning reconstruction-enabled 3D lumbar spine MRI achieves image quality comparable to conventional 2D techniques.
- The 3D approach offers a significant reduction in overall scan time, enhancing efficiency in lumbar spine imaging.
