Establishment of image quality for MRI of the knee joint using a list of anatomical criteria

Abstract Introduction The Commission of the European Communities published image quality criteria for imaging modalities. However, none were established for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Such criteria are warranted due to the complexity and health and safety risks associated with MRI. The purpose of this study was to establish image quality criteria for MRI examinations of the knee, providing harmonisation of image quality, improving practice and reducing risks. Methods Image quality criteria were established following a literature review and validation by experts. The evaluation of the quality of randomly selected MR images (n = 10) with normal findings was performed by Maltese radiographers working at a local MRI institution. The visualisation of the developed anatomical criteria was performed by rating the visibility of each criterion using visual grading analysis. Results Results of the Friedman and Binomial tests on image quality rating scores, highlighted those anatomical criteria for each scan plane which scored significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05) than the threshold score of 3. This score was identified as the score below which anatomical structures would not be sufficiently visualised to enable adequate diagnosis. Conclusion A set of image quality anatomical criteria have been successfully developed to provide image quality standards enabling the visualisation of the complex anatomical structures of the knee joint. This concept can be applied to other MRI examinations.