QMRI Tech specializes in explorative projects designed to test the potential of qMRI methods in clinical research.
Before initiating a new qMRI project, our team evaluates the feasibility of the clinical studies. If they are realistic, we precisely define the significant data that can be extracted from the relevant quantitative images, and how best to acquire the images that will provide accurate, high-quality results.
While clinically relevant information can be derived using qMRI techniques, structured data acquisition and centralization of imaging data collected from collaborating centers for analysis can accelerate the achievement of clinical and research study endpoints. To this end, QMRI Tech performs the following activities:
Definition of optimized qMRI image acquisition and analysis protocols
To enter clinical use, the quantitative parameters calculated from qMRI image acquisition and analysis protocols must have the accuracy and precision to address clinical questions. QMRI Tech maximizes the quality of image acquisition and analysis through study of alternative imaging and analysis procedures, leading to the selection and tuning of the qMRI protocols, and the implementation of robust algorithms in dedicated software. Protocol optimization also takes into consideration the need to minimize the scan duration and the complexity of the protocols so as to obtain the best possible patient and operator compliance.
To ensure that the collected data are suitable for the clinical study, the qMRI sequences are tested in phantoms, and the software optimized on simulated data prior to entering clinical research studies.
Definition and implementation of quality assurance and saftety procedures for the qMRI technique under study
QMRI Tech develops a “Safety and Quality Assurance Program” for the qMRI studies in progress.
This process considers matters relating to the choice of sequences, and ensuring that patient exposure to specific physical risk levels such as duration and intensity of the variable magnetic field (dB/dt), heating due to radio frequency fields (SAR), noise, respect physiological and regulatory limits.
These specific activities include:
- drafting of an MR image quality control protocol for the qMRI studies;
- execution and monitoring of quality control;
- consultation with the MR Safety Officer, the MR Safety Expert and the MR Medical Director, in particular as regards the justification of qMRI procedures (generally high SAR and PNS) in the case of “at risk” patients;
- training of personnel in the application of qMRI imaging procedures to protect against physical risks of those procedures, safety procedures and image quality.
qMRI Data Transfer, processing, analysis and archival
QMRI Tech defines DICOM-based procedures for transfer of images to and from our centralized analysis location, and readily integrated into the clients clinical infrastructure. Processing and analysis of data qMRI uses an array of software tools, including those developed ad hoc for specific studies. The procedures are coded in automatic or semi-automatic steps as far as possible, and at each stage of processing, the images are inspected, and the procedures, the transformations and results recorded in XML files (approved and signed electronically) that form a detailed “Audit Trail” in electronic format.