Motivation: Flip-angle modulation (FAM) for motion-robust fat quantification was previously implemented in the vendor-neutral platform Pulseq and demonstrated in two vendors at 3T only. Validation of FAM in additional vendors and field strengths is needed. Goal(s): Benchmark the quantitative bias and reproducibility of Pulseq-FAM across sites, systems, vendors, and field strengths, relative to product 3D-CSE and vendor-platform FAM. Approach: Phantom study at four sites with three vendors at 0.55T, 1.5T, and 3T; in vivo free-breathing feasibility evaluated where possible. Results: Pulseq-FAM shows low bias and similar or improved reproducibility compared to 3D-CSE, and free-breathing feasibility in all field strengths and vendors. Impact: The strong performance of Pulseq-FAM may enable broader access to free-breathing fat quantification in more vendors and systems. Pulseq-FAM may be used in future studies, such as multi-center clinical trials, which desire harmonization of sequences.
Tang et al. (Tue,) studied this question.