Improved Geometric Performance of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging for Prostate Tumor Delineation Using a Readout-Segmented Echo-Planar-Imaging Technique

Abstract

Geometric accuracy is fundamental for incorporation of functional imaging into radiation therapy, yet these factors are underemphasized in clinically standard diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) using single-shot echo-planar imaging (EPI). The alternative use of readout-segmented EPI DWI has been shown to reduce distortion by significantly shortening the echo-spacing compared to single-shot EPI. An additional 2D navigator pulse corrects for motion effects between segments. This project investigates readout-segmented-EPI DWI during endorectal coil MRI for treatment planning of patients with prostate cancer enrolled on an ongoing prospective clinical trial of tumor dose escalation.