Correction of Distortion in ADC maps using the Reversed Gradient Method

The measurement of apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) shows promise in the diagnosis of many disease processes, especially in the fields of stroke and multiple sclerosis. While diffusion weighted images can be produced with conventional MRI scanning techniques, it is preferable to use a fast imaging sequence, of which echo planar imaging (EPI) offers the shortest acquisition and highest signal to noise. With EPI becoming an increasingly common option on clinical scanners, the interest in the routine production of ADC maps has increased in recent years. A number of trials currently being performed at the Queen’s Medical Centre require ADC maps as part of their MRI protocols.