GE MRI ARC vs ASSET

This article examines GE MRI ARC vs ASSET imaging options. We explore the key differences and advantages to each scan technique.

GE MRI ARC vs ASSET: Exploring Advanced Imaging

When it comes to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), GE offers two powerful imaging options known as ARC (Autocalibrating Reconstruction for Cartesian imaging) and ASSET (Array Spatial Sensitivity Encoding Technique).

These techniques are designed to enhance image acquisition, reduce scan time, and improve image quality. But what’s the difference between ARC and ASSET? Let’s take a closer look at each technique to understand their unique capabilities.

GE MRI ARC: Accelerated Imaging with Enhanced Reconstruction

ARC is a data-driven parallel imaging technique that significantly reduces scan time while maintaining image quality. By synthesizing missing data from neighboring source data in all three imaging dimensions (slice, phase, and frequency), ARC minimizes the need for calibration lines. This results in faster and more accurate image reconstruction.

This innovative approach allows for highly accelerated MR data acquisition, reducing artifacts and enhancing overall image quality. However, it’s important to note that ARC is only available if the selected coil and imaging option support it.

GE MRI ARC Scan Applications

When selecting ARC, several factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal results. Below we detail scan considerations when using the GE MRI ARC imaging option.

First, it’s crucial to position the patient appropriately and select a compatible PSD (Pulse Sequence Design), application, and coil. If the selected PSD, application, or coil does not support ARC, it will not be available in the imaging option screen.

Additionally, choosing the correct phase or slice acceleration factor is important, and 2D and 3D PSDs have different acceleration capabilities.

Adjusting the frequency direction may be necessary to achieve the best parallel imaging direction.

Careful consideration must be given to these trade-offs and artifacts observed in specific directions should be addressed by reducing or turning off acceleration in those directions.

It’s essential to understand that acceleration factors affect the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and can introduce parallel imaging artifacts like aliasing and noise amplification.

Click here for more information about MRI scan parameter trade-offs.

Turbo ARC: Faster Acquisition for Specific Procedures

Turbo ARC, an extension of ARC, further enhances scan acquisition time for specific procedures. This feature is available with LAVA with Flex Imaging Option, VIBRANT with Flex Imaging Option, and 3D dual echo scans.

By adjusting the Turbo ARC level, the scan time can be further reduced. This makes it particularly useful for patients with short breath-hold capabilities or when acquiring two arterial phases in one breath-hold for simplified dynamic timing.

It’s important to note that increasing the Turbo ARC level may result in parallel imaging alias artifacts in certain protocols.

GE MRI ASSET: Faster Scanning with Improved Image Quality

The ASSET imaging option offers faster scanning capabilities with various imaging applications, such as brain, abdomen, chest, fMRI, extremities, and breath-hold angiography. It is particularly effective in reducing artifacts with EPI sequences and minimizing blurring with FSE sequences.

ASSET is commonly used when compromising the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is not a major concern.

Additionally, ASSET proves effective in reducing artifacts with EPI (Echo Planar Imaging) sequences, which are prone to distortions. It is also useful in decreasing blurring in the FSE family, particularly in SSFSE and DWI sequences.

Importantly, the scan time with ASSET is comparable to that of a non-ASSET scan, ensuring efficient imaging without compromising time considerations.

By leveraging parallel imaging techniques, ASSET optimizes image acquisition, enhancing both speed and quality. This feature proves especially useful in time-sensitive scenarios like breath-hold examinations and dynamic studies.

GE MRI ASSET Scan Applications

When selecting ASSET for the FSE-XL8 and FRFSE pulse sequences, the reduction in scan time relies on multiple factors. Determining factors which affect scan include ETL, PFOV, NEX, and matrix size. However, changing the phase matrix value may not impact scan time in certain combinations of ETL and PFOV selections.

• When utilizing ASSET with FSE PSDs, it is recommended to prescribe an even ETL.
• In large FOV ASSET scans, there may be degradation and the presence of thin dark bands at the edge of the FOV due to field inhomogeneities.
• SNR loss of over 50% can be expected in ASSET images, corresponding to the 50% reduction in scan time. However, this is often negligible in high signal examinations like CEMRA.
• The presence of metal in or near the area of interest can lead to significant artifacts in ASSET sequences, even with small metallic objects such as stents or clips.
• In Zoom gradient mode, the actual FOV near the isocenter is approximately 15% smaller than the prescribed FOV, necessitating the use of Whole gradient mode or adjusting the FOV accordingly.
• Changing the coil from ASSET-compatible to non-ASSET compatible will automatically remove ASSET as an Imaging Option in the protocol.
• Finally, it’s worth noting that aliasing artifacts in ASSET images project to the center of the image rather than the image edges.

GE MRI ARC vs ASSET: Which is the Best Imaging Option?

Both ARC and ASSET offer valuable enhancements to MRI imaging, allowing for faster scans and improved image quality. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between scan time reduction and image quality, taking into account factors like parallel imaging artifacts, SNR, and coil coverage. By understanding the capabilities and considerations of each technique, healthcare professionals can optimize MRI imaging protocols for their patients, ensuring efficient and accurate diagnostic outcomes.

Overview

In conclusion, GE’s MRI ARC and ASSET provide advanced imaging options that can significantly enhance MRI examinations. Whether it’s reducing scan time with ARC or improving image quality with ASSET, these techniques empower healthcare providers to deliver efficient and high-quality diagnostic imaging to their patients. By staying informed about the latest imaging advancements, medical professionals can continually refine their practices and provide optimal care.

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