Enhancing clinical applicability of renal perfusion MRI: evaluation of motion correction strategies for Arterial Spin Labeling

Motivation: Effective motion correction is essential for accurate RBF quantification. Goal(s): To evaluate the performance of groupwise and pairwise non-rigid registration algorithms to reduce motion effects in renal ASL perfusion images. Approach: A total of 77 ASL datasets, with varying background suppression levels, post-labeling delays, and slices, were used. Outcomes were evaluated through both qualitative and quantitative metrics. Results: A total of 90% datasets were rated as "improved" after groupwise registration, while all were classified as "improved" after pairwise registration Overall, metrics improved with pairwise registration and presented less variability across subjects. Impact: Pairwise registration of ASL renal perfusion datasets shows promise for enhancing diagnostic reliability and real-time evaluation within the MR scanner.