Usefulness of Super-Resolution Deep Learning-Based Reconstruction on High-Resolution 3D T2WI for Evaluation of the Internal Auditory Canal

Motivation: There are no reports on the usefulness of high-resolution three-dimensional T2-weighted imaging (HR-3D T2WI) using super-resolution deep learning-based reconstruction (SR-DLR) technique. Goal(s): We aimed to determine whether a novel SR-DLR technique can improve the image quality of HR-3D T2WI for assessing the IAC and inner ear. Approach: We qualitatively assessed the image quality of HR-3D T2WI with and without SR-DLR for the visualization of detailed structures of the IAC and inner ear. Results: SR-DLR was shown to significantly improve the image quality of HR-3D T2WI in visualizing nerves in the IAC and inner ear compared to conventional HR-3D T2WI without SR-DLR. Impact: High-resolution three-dimensional T2-weighted imaging with super-resolution deep learning-based reconstruction can improve the visualization of detailed structures of the internal auditory canal and inner ear without extended acquisition time.