Title:Effect of Breath Training on Image Quality of Chest Magnetic Resonance Free-breathing
Sequence
Volume: 20
Author(s): Yehai Jiang, Doudou Pu, Shan Dang and Nan Yu*
Affiliation:
- School of Medical Technology, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Medical Imaging, Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi, China
Keywords:
Magnetic resonance, Lung, Image quality, Respiratory training, Signal, Intensity, Standard deviation.
Abstract:
Background:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays a role in demonstrating substantial utility in lung lesion imaging, detection, diagnosis, and evaluation.
Previous studies have found that free-breathing star VIBE sequences not only have high image quality but also have a high ability to detect and
display nodules. However, in our routine clinical practice, we have encountered suboptimal image quality in the free-breathing sequences of certain
patients.
Objective:
This study aims to assess the impact of breath training on the quality of chest magnetic resonance imaging obtained during free-breathing
sequences.
Methods:
A total of 68 patients with lung lesions, such as nodules or masses detected via Computed Tomography (CT) examination, were prospectively
gathered. They were then randomly divided into two groups: an observation group and a control group. Standard preparation was performed for all
patients in both groups before the examination. The observation group underwent 30 minutes of breath training prior to the MRI examination
additionally, followed by the acquisition of MRI free-breathing sequence images. The signal intensity (SI) and standard deviation (SD) of the
lesion and adjacent normal lung tissue were measured, and the image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast signal-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the
lesion were calculated for objective image quality evaluation. The subjective image quality of the two groups of images was also evaluated using a
5-point method.
Results:
MRI examinations were completed in both groups. Significantly better subjective image quality (edge and internal structure clarity, vascular
clarity, breathing and cardiac artifacts, and overall image quality) was achieved in the observation group compared to the control group (P<0.05).
In addition, higher SNR and CNR values for disease lesions were observed in the observation group compared to the control group (t=4.35,
P<0.05; t=5.35, P<0.05).
Conclusion:
It is concluded that the image quality of free-breathing sequences MRI can be improved through breath training before examination.
