T2-weighted echo planar MR imaging of the abdomen: Optimization of imaging parameters

Echo planar imaging (EPI) is an ultra-fast magnetic resonance (MR) imaging method that provides strong T2-weighted contrast, which is important for the detection and characterization of various abdominal abnormalities. However, EPI may be associated with significant artifacts. The prominence of these artifacts, as well as overall image quality, is dramatically impacted by selection of imaging parameters. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the effects of controlled alterations in operator-defined imaging parameters on image quality in breath-hold abdominal T2-weighted EPI. An understanding of these effects facilitates optimizing parameter selection for acquisition of abdominal EPI images.