High-resolution MR-imaging of the liver with T2-weighted sequences using integrated parallel imaging: comparison of prospective motion correction and respiratory triggering.

PURPOSE: To compare high-resolution T2-weighted images of the liver with and without integrated parallel acquisition techniques (iPAT) using either breath-hold sequences in combination with prospective acquisition motion correction (PACE) or respiratory triggering.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten volunteers and 10 patients underwent each four different high-resolution fast spin echo (FSE) T2-weighted sequences with 5 mm slice thickness and a full 320 matrix: a multi-breath-hold FSE sequence with and without iPAT and PACE and a respiratory-triggered FSE sequence with and without iPAT. Image quality was rated with a five-point scale by two independent readers. Signal intensity measurements were performed on a water phantom.
RESULTS: The sequences with iPAT required a substantially shorter acquisition time without loss of image quality. Overall image quality was rated equal for all sequences by both readers. Image time for nine slices with iPAT was 13 seconds (19 seconds without iPAT) with multi-breath-hold and on average 4:00 minutes (7:02 minutes without iPAT) with respiratory triggering. Imaging with the PACE technique resulted in more correct positioning of the image stacks.
CONCLUSION: T2-weighted fast imaging with iPAT is feasible and results in high-quality images within a short acquisition time. Overall image quality is not negatively affected by iPAT. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.