Optimization of MRI Protocol for the Musculoskeletal System
Hong Seon Lee,
Young Han Lee,
Inha Jung,
Ok Kyu Song,
Sungjun Kim,
Ho-Taek Song,
Jin-Suck Suh
Affiliations
Hong Seon Lee
Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
Young Han Lee
Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
Inha Jung
Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
Ok Kyu Song
Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
Sungjun Kim
Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiological Science, Center for Clinical Imaging Data Science (CCIDS), Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
Ho-Taek Song
Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
Jin-Suck Suh
Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an essential modality for the diagnosis of musculoskeletal system defects because of its higher soft-tissue contrast and spatial resolution. With the recent development of MRI-related technology, faster imaging and various image plane reconstructions are possible, enabling better assessment of three-dimensional musculoskeletal anatomy and lesions. Furthermore, the image quality, diagnostic accuracy, and acquisition time depend on the MRI protocol used. Moreover, the protocol affects the efficiency of the MRI scanner. Therefore, it is important for a radiologist to optimize the MRI protocol. In this review, we will provide guidance on patient positioning; selection of the radiofrequency coil, pulse sequences, and imaging planes; and control of MRI parameters to help optimize the MRI protocol for the six major joints of the musculoskeletal system.
