Cervical spine MRI can be performed with shorter scan times while maintaining high image quality
In addition to the use of AiCE in routine high-resolution imaging as discussed above, AiCE also allows scan times to be shortened while maintaining the same level of image quality. With our previous MRI system, we needed to reduce the spatial resolution or slice thickness in order to compensate for the loss of SNR at short scan times. With Vantage Orian, because AiCE ensures that an acceptable SNR is maintained, we can perform examinations with shorter scan times with no compromise in spatial resolution or slice thickness.
Figure 3 shows a patient with mild cervical spondylosis.
Sagittal images were obtained in a short scan time of about 1 minute and 30 seconds. Before installation of Vantage Orian, the scan time for such images was more than 3 minutes. This means that scan times can now be reduced by half.
As shown in the images on the left, noise levels are quite high when images are acquired without AiCE. However, as shown in the images on the right, AiCE allows clear images to be obtained even with short scan times. It is often difficult for patients with cervical spine problems to remain still for a prolonged period, so the ability to perform routine examinations with such short scan times is a great benefit for our patients.
Figure 1