Rofo 2022; 194(10): 1100-1108
DOI: 10.1055/a-1800-8692
Review

Practical Aspects of novel MRI Techniques in Neuroradiology: Part 1–3D Acquisitions, Dixon Techniques and Artefact Reduction

Article in several languages: English | deutsch
1   Institute of Radiology and Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Krankenhaus, Medical Campus University of Oldenburg, Germany
2   Research Center Neurosensory Science, University of Oldenburg, Germany
3   Clinic for Radiology, University Hospital Münster, Germany
,
Benoit Billebaut
3   Clinic for Radiology, University Hospital Münster, Germany
4   School for Radiologic Technologists, University Hospital Münster, Germany
,
3   Clinic for Radiology, University Hospital Münster, Germany
,
Catalin George Iacoban
1   Institute of Radiology and Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Krankenhaus, Medical Campus University of Oldenburg, Germany
,
Olga Alykova
1   Institute of Radiology and Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Krankenhaus, Medical Campus University of Oldenburg, Germany
,
Christoph Schülke
5   Radiologie Salzstraße, Münster, Germany
,
Maike Gerdes
1   Institute of Radiology and Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Krankenhaus, Medical Campus University of Oldenburg, Germany
,
Harald Kugel
3   Clinic for Radiology, University Hospital Münster, Germany
,
Sojan Neduvakkattu
3   Clinic for Radiology, University Hospital Münster, Germany
,
Holger Bösenberg
1   Institute of Radiology and Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Krankenhaus, Medical Campus University of Oldenburg, Germany
,
Christian Mathys
1   Institute of Radiology and Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Krankenhaus, Medical Campus University of Oldenburg, Germany
2   Research Center Neurosensory Science, University of Oldenburg, Germany
6   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Düsseldorf, Germany
› Author Affiliations

Abstract

Background Recently introduced MRI techniques offer improved image quality and facilitate examinations of patients even when artefacts are expected. They pave the way for novel diagnostic imaging strategies in neuroradiology. These methods include improved 3D imaging, movement and metal artefact reduction techniques as well as Dixon techniques.

Methods Narrative review with an educational focus based on current literature research and practical experiences of different professions involved (physicians, MRI technologists/radiographers, physics/biomedical engineering). Different hardware manufacturers are considered.

Results and Conclusions 3D FLAIR is an example of a versatile 3D Turbo Spin Echo sequence with broad applicability in routine brain protocols. It facilitates detection of smaller lesions and more precise measurements for follow-up imaging. It also offers high sensitivity for extracerebral lesions. 3D techniques are increasingly adopted for imaging arterial vessel walls, cerebrospinal fluid spaces and peripheral nerves. Improved hybrid-radial acquisitions are available for movement artefact reduction in a broad application spectrum. Novel susceptibility artefact reduction techniques for targeted application supplement previously established metal artefact reduction sequences. Most of these techniques can be further adapted to achieve the desired diagnostic performances. Dixon techniques allow for homogeneous fat suppression in transition areas and calculation of different image contrasts based on a single acquisition.

Key points:

  • 3D FLAIR can replace 2 D FLAIR for most brain imaging applications and can be a cornerstone of more precise and more widely applicable protocols.

  • Further 3D TSE sequences are increasingly replacing 2D TSE sequences for specific applications.

  • Improvement of artefact reduction techniques increase the potential for effective diagnostic MRI exams despite movement or near metal implants.

  • Dixon techniques facilitate homogeneous fat suppression and simultaneous acquisition of multiple contrasts.

Citation Format

  • Sundermann B, Billebaut B, Bauer J et al. Practical Aspects of novel MRI Techniques in Neuroradiology: Part 1–3D Acquisitions, Dixon Techniques and Artefact Reduction. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2022; 194: 1100 – 1108



Publication History

Received: 31 August 2021

Accepted: 05 March 2022

Article published online:
11 May 2022

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