Workflow and scan protocol considerations for integrated whole-body PET/MRI in oncology

J Nucl Med. 2012 Sep;53(9):1415-26. doi: 10.2967/jnumed.112.109348. Epub 2012 Aug 9.

Abstract

Integrated PET/MRI systems open exciting possibilities for clinical and research applications. However, compared with PET/CT, PET/MRI is a complex technique resulting in new problems and challenges, especially regarding workflow, scan protocols, and data analysis. This complexity applies in particular to examinations in oncology with partial- or whole-body coverage extending over several bed positions. Unlike diagnostic PET/CT, for which the clinical CT protocols can largely be copied from stand-alone CT, the design of a diagnostic MRI protocol for partial- or whole-body coverage is more complex and has to be adapted to the special requirements of PET/MRI to be both time-efficient and comprehensive. Here, we describe basic considerations concerning workflow, imaging protocols, and image analysis for whole-body PET/MRI in oncology, based on our experience with the first integrated PET/MRI scanner. The aim is to fully and optimally make use of the combined PET/MRI measurements in oncology, including identifying and reducing image artifacts as well as optimizing workflow beyond the mere fusion of 2 image datasets.

MeSH terms

  • Artifacts
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Organization and Administration
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / methods*
  • Systems Integration*
  • Whole Body Imaging / methods*
  • Workflow*