Abstract
Non-invasive in vivo visualization of white matter fiber tracts is currently feasible by means of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) techniques. DTI-derived metrics, like fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD), have the potential to improve tissue characterization. Technical optimization of diffusion tensor sequences, including signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution, was performed for 20 normal subjects. High- and low-resolution DTI sequences were applied on all subjects and FA, MD parametric maps were reconstructed for both protocols. Voxel-based statistical analysis revealed regions with significantly different FA and MD values between the two sequences, while the same type of analysis was performed to illustrate regions with significantly different signal-to-noise ratio. In conclusion, optimized DTI sequences may be applied routinely in clinical practice with a standard MR scanner, while accurate quantification of FA and MD may improve lesion characterization.
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Acknowledgements
The first author of this study was supported by an R & E Fund from ECR entitled Technical optimization of diffusion tensor sequences: evaluation of 3D white matter tractography in various neurological disorders.
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Papanikolaou, N., Karampekios, S., Papadaki, E. et al. Fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity measurements on normal human brain: comparison between low- and high-resolution diffusion tensor imaging sequences. Eur Radiol 16, 187–192 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00330-005-2833-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00330-005-2833-7