Can a low b-value diffusion-weighted imaging sequence replace the standard T2-weighted fluid-sensitive sequence in breast MRI? A single-center prospective study
摘要
To determine whether a low b-value (b0) diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequence of a similar acquisition time can fulfill the role of a T2-weighted/fluid-sensitive short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequence.
Materials and methodsIn this prospective, single-institutional study, participants underwent 3-T or 1.5-T breast MRI, which included a standard T2-weighted/fluid-sensitive short TI inversion recovery (STIR) sequence and an investigational DWI sequence (comprising readout segmented echo planar imaging (rs-EPI) and simultaneous multi-slice (SMS) imaging). Five radiologists independently scored 121 lesions on imaging by answering three questions assessing lesion conspicuity, lesion signal characteristics, and artifact grading. Statistical analysis included one-sample tests of proportions and Nelson’s model kappa.
ResultsFrom 605 assessments in 72 patients (mean age, 48.3 ± 12.5 years [standard deviation]; 72 women), 537 (88.8%, p < 0.001) received assessments that lesion conspicuity on DWI was not inferior to STIR, 586 (96.9%, p < 0.001) received assessments that DWI followed the lesion signal characteristics on STIR, and 595 (98.3%, p < 0.001) received assessments that there were no or mild artifacts on DWI. Inter-reader agreement was substantial for similar lesion conspicuity (89.9%, к = 0.790, 95% CI: 0.76–0.82) and similar lesion signal characteristics (95.7%, к = 0.733, CI 0.69–0.77) on DWI and STIR, and moderate for whether there was mild/no artifact vs. moderate/substantial artifact on DWI (97.2%, к = 0.515, CI: 0.29–0.75).
ConclusionLow b-value DWI provides similar diagnostic capabilities as T2-weighted/fluid-sensitive STIR, with comparable lesion conspicuity and lesion signal characteristics and without significant artifacts.
Key Points