Deep learning-based noise reduction preserves quantitative MRI biomarkers in patients with brain tumors.

The use of relaxometry and Diffusion-Tensor Imaging sequences for brain tumor assessment is limited by their long acquisition time. We aim to test the effect of a denoising algorithm based on a Deep Learning Reconstruction (DLR) technique on quantitative MRI parameters while reducing scan time. In 22 consecutive patients with brain tumors, DLR applied to fast and noisy MR sequences preserves the mean values of quantitative parameters (Fractional anisotropy, mean Diffusivity, T1 and T2-relaxation time) and produces maps with higher structural similarity compared to long duration sequences. This could promote wider use of these biomarkers in clinical setting.
Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial or personal relationships that could be viewed as influencing the work reported in this paper.
(Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.)