Quantification and minimization of magnetic susceptibility artifacts on GRE images

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to determine the optimal imaging parameters for minimization of metallic susceptibility artifacts during gradient echo (GRE) imaging. Method: We performed GRE imaging of titanium screws in a nickel-doped agarose gel phantom, systematically varying several parameters to characterize and quantify susceptibility artifacts. Results: The greatest reduction in artifact size came from using a short TE: increasing the frequency matrix and decreasing the slice thickness also contributed substantially to reducing the artifact size. Whenever possible, implanted prostheses should be aligned with the main magnetic field to minimize artifact size. Parameters with negligible effect on artifact size included bandwidth, phase encode matrix, and field of view. Conclusion: Radiologists can easily adjust the above parameters in their imaging protocols to improve GRE image quality in patients with implanted metallic devices.