Comparison of Fat Correction Methods in CEST Imaging: A Phantom Study at 3 T

Motivation: CEST imaging has proven efficacy for neuro-oncological applications. However, for body applications (breast, liver, kidney etc.), severe challenges arising from fatty tissues prevent making full use of all available CEST contrasts. Goal(s): To find the best fat correction method for clinical CEST imaging at B0=3T. Approach: Using phantom measurements, we compared and ranked existing fat correction techniques with respect to feasibility and performance. Specifically, i.e. two-point Dixon (2PD), multi-point Dixon and IDEAL algorithms (Reeder et al.), and a CEST-specific re-normalisation approach (Zimmermann et al.). Results: Overall, 2PD proved to be the best solution, providing reliable fat correction while maintaining clinically feasible examination durations. Impact: We compared and ranked existing fat correction methods for CEST imaging in a phantom study, representing an important milestone towards application in vivo. Prospectively, these findings hold great promises for making full use of all CEST contrasts in lipid-containing tissues.