Optimisation and implementation of high b-value DWI using 200mT/m gradient system for clinical prostate MRI.

Motivation: Diffusion-weighted imaging is critical to the diagnosis of prostate cancer but can be limited by noise. A commercially available 200mT/m gradient system may allow revisiting of higher b-value DWI. Goal(s): To optimise a feasible high b-value prostate MR protocol for clinical use. Approach: Phantom, simulation and in vivo iterative optimisation were evaluated against technical metrics and novel discrete choice experimental design for radiologist preference. Results: Radiologist DWI preference is weighted by signal-to-noise. Emerging high gradient performance and deep learning reconstruction can reduced decline in SNR potentiating a signal-optimised high b-value protocol for clinical prostate cancer imaging within feasible scan times. Impact: Signal-optimised high b-value DWI for prostate cancer using a 200mT/m gradient 3T MRI system may be clinically feasible and supports a scalable trial of its diagnostic impact.