Quantitative Analysis of Magnetic Gradients Performance Changes and Image Quality Following the Application of Sound Reduction Technique in MRI

This study aimed to quantitatively compare and analyze the changes in sound pressure levels and the differences in image quality before and after applying the Sound reduction technique. We propose the utility of sound reduction techniques and suggest clinically meaningful criteria based on our findings. ACR phantom images, including T1-weight, T2-weight, DWI, and 3D GE T1 sequences, were acquired using a 3.0 T MRI both before and after the application of the Sound reduction technique. We assessed whether the images met quality control guidelines and compared the reductions in sound pressure levels using the displayed SPL values from the equipment. The DWI image was significantly distorted precluding accurate measurement for meeting the ACR MRI phantom guidelines. However, most of the other images showed no significant differences. Although there were statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in some categories, these images still passed the criteria set by the ACR phantom guidelines. Sound pressure levels were reduced by 27.3%, 49.6%, 72.5%, and 70.1% in the T1, T2, DWI, and 3D GE sequences, respectively. In conclusion, all images except DWI maintained comparable image quality.