Evaluate the effects of software on repeatability and reproducibility in brain volume measurements

Motivation: MRI-based brain volumetry is a valuable tool to assess human brain development and brain disorders. However, insuring repeatability and reproducibility is essential for a larger dissemination. Goal(s): Our goal was to compare the repeatability/reproducibility in volume measurements by different popular software tools. Approach: We performed T2w scans and repeated T1w scans for 82 subjects on two 3T scanners. We computed the volume within- and between-scanner variabilities. Results: Improved masking helps reduce variability in Freesurfer’s volume measurements. Synthseg and vol2Brain give better volume repeatability/reproducibility compared to Freesurfer. Impact: Our results provide quantification of the effects on repeatability/reproducibility from different software enabling clinicians and researchers to make an informed choice for data processing.