Synchronisation strategies in T2-weighted MR imaging for detection of liver lesions: Application on a nude mouse model

AIM The objective of this work was to propose original synchronisation strategies based on T2-weighted sequence performed on a small animal MRI spectrometer in order to improve the image contrast and detect mouse liver lesions at high magnetic field. MATERIALS AND METHODS The experiments were performed in vivo at 7T using a 32 mm inner diameter cylindrical volumetric coil for both RF emission and reception. A sensitive pressure sensor was used to detect external movements due to both respiration and heart beats. The pressure sensor was interfaced with a commercial ECG Trigger Unit to use dedicated functionalities (trigger levels, delays and window). To enable T2-weighted imaging with minimised T1 effects, an acquisition strategy with controlled TR spanning over several respiratory cycles was developed. With this strategy, the slices were acquired over several respiratory periods. RESULTS The acquisition, performed over several respiratory periods, enables a longer TR than the typical mouse respiratory period. The image contrast is controllable and independent of the respiratory period. The heavily T2-weighted images obtained with the developed strategy allow better visualisation of lesions at high magnetic field. Moreover, double respiratory and cardiac synchronisation, based on a unique sensitive pressure sensor, improves image quality with less motion artifacts, especially in the ventral liver region. The total slice number is independent of respiratory period and thin slices can be acquired to cover the whole liver. CONCLUSION The developed strategy enables high quality pure T2-weighted imaging with minimal motion artifacts. This strategy improves T2-weighted image contrast and quality, especially at high magnetic field, on animals with short respiratory periods. The strategy was demonstrated using a mouse model of liver lesions at 7T. This protocol could be used to carry out a longitudinal follow-up.