An Optimized Analytical Segmented (opAS) Approach to Extract Intravoxel Incoherent Motion (IVIM) Parameters

Motivation: Despite the IVIM model’s ability to noninvasively provide insight into tissue microstructure and perfusion, estimation of IVIM parameters in low-perfused tissues such as bone marrow remains a challenge. Goal(s): In this work, we propose an optimized analytical segmented (opAS) approach for extracting IVIM diffusion (Ds) and perfusion (Df and f). Approach: We compare the performance of this new approach against the analytical segmented (AS) method previously proposed for low-perfused tissues using numerical simulations and a piglet model. Results: Our findings indicate that opAS outperforms AS in the estimation of all IVIM parameters (Ds, Df, and f), particularly in the low perfusion regime. Impact: The proposed opAS method outperforms the prior AS method in estimating IVIM diffusion (Ds) and perfusion (Df and f) parameters, bringing IVIM a step closer to being a clinically useful non-contrast-enhanced technique to assess bone marrow perfusion.