Towards Clearer Renal 3D-APTw Imaging: Evaluating the Influence of Breathing Techniques and Acquisition Orientations

Motivation: With the growing application of renal 3D amide proton transfer-weighted (3D-APTw) imaging studies, discrepancies in results due to respiratory motion have become a prominent concern. Addressing this issue is crucial. Goal(s): This study aimed to explore how various breathing techniques and orientations affect the image quality of renal 3D-APTw scans. Approach: The effects of free breathing (FB), intermittent breath-hold (IBH), and axial and coronal acquisition on image quality were analyzed in 50 healthy volunteers. Results: The IBH technique significantly improved image success rate and consistency compared to FB. Additionally, axial acquisition demonstrated superior image quality over coronal acquisition, even when IBH was employed. Impact: Respiratory motion has a significant effect on renal 3D-APTw imaging quality. Implementing efficient respiratory compensation techniques is crucial for advancing the accuracy and applicability of renal 3D-APTw imaging.