Authors (including presenting author) :
Lee KH(1), Au ECY(1), Yip LKC(1), Fang BXH(1), Lau V(1), Lee R(1), Lam PW(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Radiology, Queen Mary Hospital
Introduction :
There is a growing demand for the use of magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate musculoskeletal diseases. Three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (3D MRI) is increasingly integrated into clinical practice due to its high in-plane and through-plane resolutions compared to traditional 2D MRI. Thoughtful introduction of accelerated MRI protocols integrating 3D sequences enables shortening of examination time, which in turn improves clinical workflow, productivity and patient satisfaction.
Objectives :
1) To introduce accelerated musculoskeletal MRI protocols integrating high-resolution 3D sequences in Hong Kong West Cluster. 2) To describe and evaluate the benefits of 3D MRI in term of shortening of imaging time which translates into clinical efficiency, productivity and patient satisfaction.
Methodology :
New musculoskeletal MRI protocols incorporating high-resolution 3D MRI sequences were introduced since April 2020 in Hong Kong West Cluster across a range of anatomical regions, including cervical spine, brachial plexus, knee, ankle and shoulder. Image quality and acquisition times of the MRI examinations were constantly reviewed and modified by a team of dedicated musculoskeletal radiologists and MR radiographers. The 3D MRI sequences with high spatial resolution allowed multiplanar reconstruction in any imaging plane and enhanced anatomical assessment of various musculoskeletal structures including cartilage, ligaments, tendons and peripheral nerves. Imaging time is reduced by obviating the need of acquiring 2D sequences in multiple imaging planes. This facilitated the implementation of fast-track musculoskeletal MRI service and MR neurography service. Clinical workflow of MR radiographers were improved due to simplification of MRI protocols. Number of MRI examinations performed under the new protocols were retrieved from radiology information system (RIS). Reductions in examination time were reviewed.
Result & Outcome :
Over 600 MRI examinations incorporating high-resolution 3D MRI sequences were performed over a period of 9 months across a range of anatomical regions including cervical spine, brachial plexus, knee, ankle and shoulder. In particular, the examination times of MRI knee/ankle and MRI brachial plexus were accelerated by 20-25% from 40 minutes to 30 minutes and 50 minutes to 40 minutes respectively. With full implementation of 3D-only protocols in MRI knee and ankle examinations, there is a potential to further reduce the imaging time by 30%. In conclusion, integrating high-resolution 3D musculoskeletal MRI into routine radiology practice provides promising opportunity to improve both clinical productivity and diagnostic efficacy.
