Image Quality Evaluation of Neonatal Brain MRI Using a Deep Learning Reconstruction Algorithm: A Quantitative and Multireader Study Using Variable Denoising Levels at 3 Tesla

PurposeNeonatal imaging is particularly challenging because newborns have a high likelihood of head motion, which can degrade image quality and complicate interpretation. Improving MRI brain image quality may help reduce diagnostic uncertainty and facilitate the nuanced assessment of early myelinating structures in the neonatal brain. Although deep learning reconstruction algorithms designed to improve MRI image quality have been evaluated in pediatric imaging, they have not been specifically studied in exclusively neonatal populations. We sought to evaluate image quality improvement through the employment of a deep learning reconstruction algorithm in neonatal brain imaging. Methods3D T1-weighted brain MRIs were obtained in 15 neonates. A deep-learning reconstruction algorithm was applied to the image sets using low, medium, and high levels of denoising. Three radiologists qualitatively rated image quality (signal-to-noise ratio, presence of artifacts, and overall clarity) on a 4-point scale of eight early myelinating structures. Objective apparent signal-to-noise ratio (aSNR) and apparent contrast-to-noise ratio (aCNR), based on signal intensities of white-and gray-matter, was measured across all three denoising levels. ResultsEvaluation by radiologists indicated an overall increase in all image quality categories and increased conspicuity of the early myelinating structures as the level of denoising increased. Objective aSNR and aCNR values also increased progressively with denoising, with significant differences observed for nearly all pairwise comparisons. ConclusionOur findings suggest that the use of the proposed deep learning reconstruction algorithm improves image quality in 3D T1-weighted neonatal brain MRIs at 3T.