Objectives
To compare the image quality and diagnostic performance of conventional motion-corrected periodically rotated overlapping parallel line with enhanced reconstruction (PROPELLER) MRI sequences with post-processed PROPELLER MRI sequences using deep learning-based (DL) reconstructions.
Methods
In this prospective study of 30 patients, conventional (19 min 18 s) and accelerated MRI sequences (7 min 16 s) using the PROPELLER technique were acquired. Accelerated sequences were post-processed using DL. The image quality and diagnostic confidence were qualitatively assessed by 2 readers using a 5-point Likert scale. Analysis of the pathological findings of cartilage, rotator cuff tendons and muscles, glenoid labrum and subacromial bursa was performed. Inter-reader agreement was calculated using Cohen’s kappa statistic. Quantitative evaluation of image quality was measured using the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR).
Results
Mean image quality and diagnostic confidence in evaluation of all shoulder structures were higher in DL sequences (p value = 0.01). Inter-reader agreement ranged between kappa values of 0.155 (assessment of the bursa) and 0.947 (assessment of the rotator cuff muscles). In 17 cases, thickening of the subacromial bursa of more than 2 mm was only visible in DL sequences. The pathologies of the other structures could be properly evaluated by conventional and DL sequences. Mean SNR (p value = 0.01) and CNR (p value = 0.02) were significantly higher for DL sequences.
Conclusions
The accelerated PROPELLER sequences with DL post-processing showed superior image quality and higher diagnostic confidence compared to the conventional PROPELLER sequences. Subacromial bursa can be thoroughly assessed in DL sequences, while the other structures of the shoulder joint can be assessed in conventional and DL sequences with a good agreement between sequences.
Key Points
• MRI of the shoulder requires long scan times and can be hampered by motion artifacts.
• Deep learning–based convolutional neural networks are used to reduce image noise and scan time while maintaining optimal image quality. The radial k-space acquisition technique (PROPELLER) can reduce the scan time and has potential to reduce motion artifacts.
• DL sequences show a higher diagnostic confidence than conventional sequences and therefore are preferred for assessment of the subacromial bursa, while conventional and DL sequences show comparable performance in the evaluation of the shoulder joint.
• CT helps to assess patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). • MRI is the reference standard for evaluation of left ventricular function. • CT provides accurate assessment of global left ventricular function.
ObjectiveTo evaluate iliopsoas atrophy and loss of function after displaced lesser trochanter fracture of the hip.DesignCohort study.SettingDistrict hospital.PatientsTwenty consecutive patients with pertrochanteric fracture and displacement of the lesser trochanter of > 20 mm.InterventionFracture fixation with either an intramedullary nail or a plate.Outcome measurementsClinical scores (Harris hip, WOMAC), hip flexion strength measurements, and magnetic resonance imaging findings.ResultsCompared with the contralateral non-operated side, the affected side showed no difference in hip flexion force in the supine upright neutral position and at 30° of flexion (205.4 N vs 221.7 N and 178.9 N vs. 192.1 N at 0° and 30° flexion, respectively). However, the affected side showed a significantly greater degree of fatty infiltration compared with the contralateral side (global fatty degeneration index 1.085 vs 0.784), predominantly within the psoas and iliacus muscles.ConclusionSevere displacement of the lesser trochanter (> 20 mm) in pertrochanteric fractures did not reduce hip flexion strength compared with the contralateral side. Displacement of the lesser trochanter in such cases can lead to fatty infiltration of the iliopsoas muscle unit. The amount of displacement of the lesser trochanter did not affect the degree of fatty infiltration.Level of evidenceII.
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