MR Imaging

MRI has an important and increasing role in liver imaging given its excellent sensitivity, superior soft tissue contrast, lack of ionizing radiation, and multiparametric capabilities for the detection and characterization of focal liver lesions and diffuse liver disease. Multiple factors must be accounted for to ensure high image quality, as achieving excellent MRI images requires a balance between the signal to noise ratio (SNR), spatial and temporal resolution. Patients must be appropriately selected to undergo MRI, must be able to cooperate with breath-hold instructions, and be able to limit unnecessary motion. Several strategies exist to optimize MRI sequences, including techniques employed to reduce scan time and increase SNR. A fundamental understanding of MRI artifacts and methods to reduce artifacts is important for the practicing radiologist. We will review some sequence optimization strategies to reduce MR-related artifact and improve patient cooperation in addition to reviewing the standard and advanced MRI protocols for assessment of focal liver lesions and diffuse liver disease.