Deep Learning Reconstruction-based Accelerated Rectal MRI: Image Quality, Diagnostic Performance, and Reading Efficiency Assessment

Motivation: Accelerated MRI is an imminent need clinically to satisfy the growing disease burden of rectal cancer. Goal(s): This study aims to conduct clinical assessment of DLR-based accelerated rectal MRI, encompassing image acquisition, image quality, diagnostic performance, and reding efficiency. Approach: Two sets of T2WI using standard fast spin-echo (FSEstandard) and DLR-based accelerated FSE (FSEDL) were prospectively compared. Results: FSEDL showed superior image quality and reading efficiency than FSEstandard, with a 65% reduction in acquisition time. DLR could assist to enhance the accuracy of T-staging for junior radiologists, preserving equivalent diagnostic performance in N staging, EMVI, and MRF. Impact: This study offered a comprehensive and viable perspective on the application of DLR in rectal MRI, which facilitated improved image quality and reading efficiency, while reducing acquisition time. Moreover, it enhanced the accuracy of T-staging for junior radiologists.