Improved image quality in contrast-enhanced 3D-T1 weighted sequence by compressed sensing-based deep-learning reconstruction for the evaluation of head and neck.

To assess the utility of deep learning (DL)-based image reconstruction with the combination of compressed sensing (CS) denoising cycle by comparing images reconstructed by conventional CS-based method without DL in fat-suppressed (Fs)-contrast enhanced (CE) three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted images (T1WIs) of the head and neck. We retrospectively analyzed the cases of 39 patients who had undergone head and neck Fs-CE 3D T1WI applying reconstructions based on conventional CS and CS augmented by DL, respectively. In the qualitative assessment, we evaluated overall image quality, visualization of anatomical structures, degree of artifacts, lesion conspicuity, and lesion edge sharpness based on a five-point system. In the quantitative assessment, we calculated the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of the lesion and the posterior neck muscle and the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) between the lesion and the adjacent muscle. For all items of the qualitative analysis, significantly higher scores were awarded to images with DL-based reconstruction (p < 0.001). In the quantitative analysis, DL-based reconstruction resulted in significantly higher values for both the SNR of lesions (p < 0.001) and posterior neck muscles (p < 0.001). Significantly higher CNRs were also observed in images with DL-based reconstruction (p < 0.001). DL-based image reconstruction integrating into the CS-based denoising cycle offered superior image quality compared to the conventional CS method. This technique will be useful for the assessment of patients with head and neck disease. • The acquisition of good image quality poses challenges in MRI of the head and neck. • Superior image quality in CE 3D-T1WI was achieved using CS-based DL reconstruction. • CS-based DL reconstruction may serve as a beneficial tool for head and neck MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]