Preliminary Evaluation of an MR Anatomically Guided PET Reconstruction in Epilepsy

Motivation: PET image often suffers from limited resolution. Bowsher CNN, an MR anatomic-guided PET reconstruction method, can provide high-resolution PET images. Thus far, how it may affect epilepsy diagnosis has not yet been fully evaluated. Goal(s): Evaluate and compare the MR anatomic-guided and OSEM PET reconstruction techniques in epilepsy diagnosis. Approach: PET images were reconstructed employing both the Bowsher CNN and OSEM approaches. A radiologist blindly reviewed the images and assessed image quality and diagnostic value. Results: The Bowsher CNN method demonstrated potential benefits compared to OSEM reconstruction. This preliminary evaluation suggests that Bowsher CNN may potentially enhance image quality and epilepsy diagnostic confidence. Impact: This study demonstrates that MR anatomically-guided PET reconstruction using Bowsher CNN increased image sharpness and contrast. Future investigation using a larger cohort is needed to examine the potential clinical utility of MR anatomically-guided PET in diagnosis and diagnostic confidence.