Median-anchored Generalized Linear Binning vs Conventional Methods to Quantify 129Xe Lung Ventilation MRI

Motivation: Hyperpolarized (HP) 129Xe MRI is an accepted method to assess lung ventilation, but there is no robust, standardized method to quantify impaired ventilation, and existing analysis methods have not been compared comprehensively. Goal(s): To define impaired ventilation via HP-129Xe ventilation defect percentage (VDP) using median-anchored generalized linear binning (Median) and benchmark performance against established methods. Approach: HP-129Xe VDP was calculated from 10 healthy controls and 18 people with cystic fibrosis using the proposed and 5 established methods, including reader defect-scoring. Results: Median-anchoring improved robustness and agreed better with reader-scoring, indicating the potential to consistently and reliably quantify VDP. Impact: Median-anchored generalized linear binning analysis of HP-129Xe ventilation images enabled improved detection of subtle ventilation impairments in people with cystic fibrosis. This method shows promise for broader applications across obstructive diseases, advancing early diagnosis and disease monitoring.