Agreement of vendor software tools for placental diffusion coefficient maps in normal and hypertensive pregnancies

Motivation: The complexity of the human placenta and the impact of chronic hypertension (cHTN) on pregnancy outcomes necessitate a deeper understanding and reliable imaging methods. Goal(s): This study aimed to evaluate the agreement of diffusion coefficients derived from various fit algorithms provided by two vendor-specific software in pregnancies with and without cHTN. Approach: We conducted a 3T MRI study on 39 pregnancies, including healthy and cHTN cases, calculating diffusion coefficients using multiple models and parameter estimation algorithms. Agreement and bias were assessed through Intraclass Correlation Coefficients and Bland-Altman analysis. Results: Strong agreement was observed within similar models, while agreement across vendors was generally moderate. Impact: Choice of diffusion models significantly affects diffusion coefficients estimation. Consistent methodologies in placental diffusion imaging are crucial for reliable comparisons and generalizable clinical interpretation.