MRI OF FOCAL LIVER-LESIONS USING A 1.5 T TURBO-SPINECHO TECHNIQUE COMPARED WITH SPINECHO TECHNIQUE

Aim The aim of our study was to evaluate a T-2-weighted turbo-spinecho sequence in comparison to a T-2-weighted spinecho sequence in imaging focal liver lesions. Methods:In our study 35 patients with suspected focal liver lesions were examined. Standardised imaging protocol inclu ded a conventional T-2-weighted SE sequence (T-R/T-E = 2000/90/45, acq uisition time = 10.20) as well as T-2-weighted TSE sequence (T-R/T-E = 4700/90, acquisition time = 6.33). Calculation of S/N and C/N ratio a s a basis of quantitative evaluation was done using standard methods. A diagnostic score was implemented to enable qualitative assessment. R esults: In 7% (n = 2) the TSE sequence enabled detection, further live r lesions showing a size of less than 1 cm in diameter. Comparing anat omical details the TSE sequence was superior. S/N and C/N ratio of ana tomic and pathologic structures of the TSE Sequence were higher compar ed to results of the SE sequence. Conclusion: Our results indicate tha t the T-2-weighted turbo-spinecho sequence is well appropriate for ima ging focal liver lesions and leads to reduction of imaging time.