Improved performance of prostate DCE-MRI using a 32-coil vs. 12-coil receiver array

Purpose To assess whether acquisition with 32 receiver coils rather than the vendor-recommended 12 coils provides significantly improved performance in 3D dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) of the prostate. Materials The study was approved by the institutional review board and was compliant with HIPAA. 50 consecutive male patients in whom prostate MRI was clinically indicated were prospectively imaged in March 2015 with an accelerated DCE-MRI sequence in which image reconstruction was performed using 12 and 32 coil elements. The two reconstructions were compared quantitatively and qualitatively. The first was done using signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and g-factor analysis to assess sensitivity to acceleration. The second was done using a five-point scale by two experienced radiologists using criteria of perceived SNR, artifact, sharpness, and overall preference. Significance was assessed with the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Extension to T2-weighted spin-echo and diffusion sequences was assessed in phantom studies. Results Reconstruction using 32 vs. 12 coil elements provided improved performance in DCE-MRI based on intrinsic SNR (18% higher) and g-factor statistics (14% higher), with a median 32% higher overall SNR within the prostate volume over all subjects. Reconstruction using 32 coils was qualitatively rated significantly improved (p < 0.001) vs. 12 coils on the basis of perceived SNR and radiologist preference and equivalent for sharpness and artifact. Phantom studies suggested the improvement in intrinsic SNR could extend to T2-weighted spin-echo and diffusion sequences. Conclusions Reconstruction of 3D accelerated DCE-MRI studies of the prostate using 32 independent receiver coils provides improved overall performance vs. using 12 coils.