Impact of Deep Learning denoising and ultra-high density coil array on prostate diffusion imaging

Motivation: Multiparametric-MRI (mpMRI) of the prostate is integral in the detection, staging, treatment planning, and targeting for prostate cancer. Particularly diffusion weight imaging (DWI) provides a strong correlation with cancer grade. However, DWI, particularly at high b-value suffers from low SNR. Goal(s): To improve image quality of DWI, particularly at high-b-value, for prostate MRI-guided clinical care. Approach: This study employs a novel body-conforming high-density 50-Channel pelvic coil with additional perineal coverage and Deep Learning (DL) based reconstruction for denoising diffusion images. Results: High density pelvic coil and DL-based reconstruction improves the image quality demonstrated in reader score and statistical measurements. Impact: This study shows a clinically feasible approach by combining a novel 50-channel pelvic coil with perineal coverage with DL based reconstruction for an improved DWI imaging in prostate MR.