• T Helmberger, N Holzknecht, C A Lackerbauer, U Müller-Lisse, P Schnarkowski, J Gauger, and M Reiser.
• Institut für Radiologische Diagnostik, Universität München.
• Radiologe. 1995 Dec 1; 35 (12): 919-24.

PurposeTo determine the efficacy of fast MRI techniques using a tailored imaging design (breathhold and array-surface coil), conventional T1-, T2-weighted spin-echo (SE) sequences and breathhold gradient-echo (GRE) T1- and breathhold fast SE T2-weighted images were compared.Methods20 patients with proven focal liver lesions were studied on a 1.5 Tesla system. Conventional SE T1- and T2-weighted imaging, as well as GRE T1- and fast SE T2-weighted imaging was performed. Fast imaging was done during breathhold using an array-surface coil. For all sequences signal-to-noise ratios (S/N) and liver-to-lesion-contrast ratios (L/L) were measured and statistically compared. In addition, two blinded readers qualitatively evaluated all images, using a score system regarding artifacts (breathing, pulsation), number of lesions, and over-all image quality.ResultsRegarding image quality parameters, S/N and L/L, there was no significant (p > 0.05) difference between the conventional and fast imaging techniques. However, GRE imaging was superior (84.8%) to conventional imaging for breathing and pulsation artifacts, while fast SE T2 imaging was equal regarding breathing artifacts, but superior (51.5%) regarding pulsation artifacts. The number of detected hepatic lesions was identical in all sequences.ConclusionThe fast MRI techniques demonstrated a superiority to conventional imaging regarding image quality and presence of artifacts. Therefore, fast imaging techniques can replace conventional techniques, at least in patients that can sufficiently sustain breathing.

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