Aim: The aim of our study was to evaluate a T2-weighted turbo-spinecho sequence in comparison to a T2-weighted spinecho sequence in imaging focal liver lesions.
Methods: In our study 35 patients with suspected focal liver lesions were examined. Standardised imaging protocol included a conventional T2-weighted SE sequence (TR/TE = 2000/90/45, acquisition time = 10.20) as well as a T2-weighted TSE sequence (TR/TE = 4700/90, acquisition time = 6.33). Calculation of S/N and C/N ratio as a basis of quantitative evaluation was done using standard methods. A diagnostic score was implemented to enable qualitative assessment.
Results: In 7% (n = 2) the TSE sequence enabled detection of further liver lesions showing a size of less than 1 cm in diameter. Comparing anatomical details the TSE sequence was superior. S/N and C/N ratio of anatomic and pathologic structures of the TSE sequence were higher compared to results of the SE sequence.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that the T2-weighted turbo-spinecho sequence is well appropriate for imaging focal liver lesions, and leads to reduction of imaging time.