Technical Implementation and Experience in Pulmonary Magnetic Resonance Imaging at Thien Nhan Medical Center, Da Nang
Main Article Content
Abstract
Objectives: 1.To present experiences related to patient preparation before lung MRI to achieve optimal image quality. 2. To describe technical optimization protocols for specific patient groups and derive practical insights from lung MRI procedures at Thien Nhan Da Nang.
Methods: The study was conducted on 135 patients undergoing lung MRI from June 2022 to June 2024 at Thien Nhan Da Nang using a 3.0T Lumina MRI system (Siemens). Prior to imaging, patients received
psychological preparation and breathing technique training ("inhale - hold
breath"). Technicians and physicians analyzed images from each case to
evaluate pulse sequences, document acceptable parameters, and apply
them to similar cases. Suboptimal cases underwent protocol adjustments
and retesting, with additional breathing training provided for noncompliant
patients. Data from lung MRI cases were collected and analyzed to establish standardized protocols, improve image quality, and reduce failure rates.
Results: The failure rate decreased significantly from 35% during
June 2022 - June 2023 to 4% during June 2023 - June 2024, while the number of high-quality scans increased by 1.5 times. Scan duration ranged from 8-12 minutes for standard protocols and 10-15 minutes with contrast administration. Proper psychological preparation and breathing training were crucial factors in improving image quality. Protocol parameter
optimization included: increasing concatenations, selecting appropriate
slices/slices per slab, and reducing TR to match patients' breath-holding
capacity. Specialized pulse sequences (BLADE combined with triggering)
were employed for non-compliant patients to enhance image quality.
Conclusion: Lung MRI has gained increasingly widespread application due to its advantages of being radiation-free and improvements in signal intensity, resolution, acquisition speed, and contrast. It is
particularly effective for pediatric patients, pregnant women, and patients with contrast media allergies. Key factors for increasing success rates, reducing scan time, and ensuring diagnostic image quality include breathhold training, flexible parameter adjustment, and free-breathing techniques
with motion-resistant sequences.
Keywords
Lung MRI, pulmonary magnetic resonance imaging, imaging techniques.
Article Details
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