Pediatric body MRI is a highly effective imaging modality that enables precise characterization of diverse medical conditions. However, it comes with daily challenges, including accommodating variations in patient size, managing breath-hold difficulties, potential sedation needs, addressing patient comfort and anxiety, and the importance of minimizing RF energy deposition and contrast agent use. To become proficient in interpreting body MRI, it is essential to understand the techniques and clinical applications of each pulse sequence and learn how to use them for accurate tissue characterization. In this ABC guide, we employ the structured approach of “clinical images - techniques – physics” to bridge the gap between practical application and the theoretical foundation of pediatric body MRI. It serves as a comprehensive roadmap, helping learners gain a profound understanding of not only what they are observing in the images but also the underlying reasons and mechanisms that give rise to these images. We will present body MRI techniques in 4 categories: qualitative MRI sequences, quantitative MRI sequences, artifact recognition, and “how to”. In each category, our approach will encompass data acquisition, fundamental physical principles, imaging characteristics, and the essential groundwork for interpretation. These teachings are firmly grounded in our institutional MRI protocol for pediatric body MRI, providing a comprehensive and practical understanding of the subject. The education poster will be divided as follows: 1. Qualitative MRI Sequences: - T2-Weighted and Heavy T2-Weighted Imaging - Pre- and Post-Contrast T1-Weighted Imaging - Mixed T2/T1 Contrast Imaging: - Cartesian, Radial, or Spiral-based k-space data acquisition: Detailed explanations of various k-space sampling methods will be provided. - The Role of Magnetization Preparation Techniques - The Role of Physiological Control 2. Quantitative MRI Sequences: - Measurement of T1 and T2 Relaxation Times - Measurement of ADC and Diffusion MRI Techniques - Measurement of Stiffness of Liver and MR Elastography Techniques - Liver Iron Quantification 3. Common Body MRI Artifacts in Pediatric Patients: A wide array of artifacts, including motion artifacts, susceptibility artifacts, and aliasing artifacts, among others, will be thoroughly covered. 4. How to… - Address Body MRI Image Quality Issues - Safely Scan Pediatric Patients with Implants Read More

Meeting name: SPR 2024 Annual Meeting & Postgraduate Course , 2024

Authors: Zhang Zhongwei, Barhaghi Krystle, Tao Ting, Murray Kari

Keywords: Body MRI, Physics, Pediatric Imaging