Comprehensive Assessment of Nonuniform Image Quality: Replication and Application to Metal Imaging at 0.55T

Motivation: To evaluate nonuniform image quality in 0.55T MRI. Goal(s): To replicate a recently published method for comprehensive assessment of nonuniform image quality1 in the context of imaging around metal at 0.55T. Approach: A total hip arthroplasty (THA) implant and plastic replica were scanned using 2D-TSE and SEMAC. Intensity artifact, SNR, geometric distortion and spatial resolution maps were estimated. Results: We successfully replicated a method for comprehensive assessment of nonuniform image quality, and demonstrate its ability to quantify intensity artifacts, geometric distortion, signal-to-noise ratio, and spatial resolution. Impact: We demonstrate successful replication of the original methods paper, utilizing conventional 3D printing, a gyroid lattice phantom, and a THA phantom with a cobalt-chromium head, for the application to MRI near metallic implants at 0.55T.