Standardization of performance evaluation in MRI: 13 Years' experience of intersystem comparison

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents work undertaken over 13 years to standardize image quality measurements in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The Mag netic Resonance N ational E valuation T eam, MagNET, a nonprofit organization based in the United Kingdom, has performed image quality evaluations since 1988. The results of these type tests have been for the use of the UK National Health Service primarily during purchasing and installation of a new MRI system. The United Kingdom currently has around 300 MRI systems which is a substantially lower number than found in the United States or Japan. However these tests are deemed essential to ensure quality and safety of MRI within a nationalized health service. Over 70 MRI systems have been type tested for a range of performance characteristics; this paper focuses on four parameters to demonstrate the successes and pitfalls of intersystem comparison. Overall the data for signal‐to‐noise ratio and geometric distortion clearly show the benefits of high‐field MRI and reflect the market shift in this direction. The tests also distinguish clearly between open‐sided and cylindrical bore magnet designs. The imaging speed parameter is presented over the last 10 years and clearly reflects the rapid development in computer data processing and gradient performance within MRI. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts in Magnetic Resonance (Magn Reson Engineering) 15: 111–116, 2002.