Optimization of the Parameters for Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging Data Acquisition for Breast Fiber Tractography at 1.5 T

Optimizing image acquisition parameters is essential for producing high-quality diffusion tensor (DT) imaging (DTI) data. This study aimed to optimize the parameters for DTI data acquisition for breast fiber tractograhy. Twenty-one healthy volunteers received breast DTI scanning using an array spatial sensitivity encoding technique (ASSET)-based echo-planar imaging (EPI) technique. The optimization of data acquisition parameters could improve the quality of breast DT magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images and assist fiber tractography at 1.5 T. Introduction: Diffusion tensor MRI has emerged as a promising tool for the analysis of the microscopic properties of tissues. Optimizing image acquisition parameters is essential for producing high-quality DTI. This study aimed to optimize the parameters for DTI data acquisition for breast fiber tractography at 1.5 T. Patients and Methods: A total of 21 healthy volunteers received breast DTI scanning using an ASSET-based EPI technique operated under different parameters including b value, the number of diffusion gradient directions, and spatial resolution. The images were analyzed for signal-to-noise, signal intensity ratio, mean number and length of reconstructive fiber tracts, and fractional anisotropy value. Results: The optimal acquisition parameters at 1.5 T for breast DT-MRI fiber tractography were determined as follows: axial 31 direction, b = 600 seconds per mm(2), matrix 128 x 128 with slice thickness of 3 mm. Conclusion: The optimization of data acquisition parameters could improve the quality of breast DT-MRI images and assist fiber tractography at 1.5 T. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.