Rishik Rangaraju

12-4-22
10-1

Fritz, Jan. “Automated and Radiation-Free Generation of Synthetic CT from MRI Data: Does AI Help to Cross
the Finish Line?” Radiology, vol. 298, no. 2, 2021, pp. 350–352. https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.2020204045.

This journal article discusses the complementary nature of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and
computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of musculoskeletal disorders. MRI has the ability to provide high
contrast resolution and selectively visualize and characterize various tissues. At the same time, CT excels in
visualizing abnormalities in low signal-intensity areas and quantitatively characterizing tissues. The generation
of CT images is based on the attenuation of ionizing radiation, while MRI is based on signals resonating from
protons inside the body. CT numbers are quantitative, while MRI signal intensities are relative, making it
challenging to characterize mineralized tissues with MRI quantitatively. Clinical results are reported for a deep
learning-based multiparametric MRI technique that creates synthetic CT images that are quantitatively and
qualitatively similar to conventional CT images. The latest technology allows an automated pipeline for
producing fully automated MRI to picture archiving communication system synthetic CT images, saving a
significant amount of post-processing time for the image operators. Both MRI and CT can be functional in the
evaluation of musculoskeletal disorders, with CT often supplementing MRI in the characterization of fractures,
osseous lesions, spinal stenosis, and autoimmune diseases. There are several techniques for generating CT-like
information from MRI datasets, including gradient-echo MRI, susceptibility-weighted MRI, and ultrashort and
zero echo time MRI, as well as deep learning-based approaches for generating quantitatively accurate synthetic
CT images. Some of the diseases that are addressed by leveraging synthetic CT images include the diagnosis of
sclerosis, detection of erosions, and ankylosis of the sacroiliac joints for musculoskeletal patients. Overall, the
use of AI in generating synthetic CT images from MRI datasets can improve diagnosis and treatment for
different musculoskeletal conditions while reducing radiation exposure and leading to improved radiation
therapies.
The author, Jan Fritz, is qualified to discuss the effects of artificial intelligence on synthetic CT and MRI
data because his credentials include being a trained musculoskeletal radiologist, associate professor, and the
division chief of musculoskeletal radiology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York City with
over 15 years of experience in musculoskeletal imaging research and clinical practice, and his contact
information with phone number is included in the article. Written two years ago, this source is current on the
topic of the automated and radiation-free generation of synthetic CT from MRI data in relation to artificial
intelligence. The author of this article thoroughly evaluated all sides of the issue. For example, they
acknowledge that MRI has weaknesses in areas such as visualizing abnormalities in scans and then address that
opposing viewpoint by saying CT excels at covering up for these weaknesses from MRI. This inclusion shows
that the article’s author acknowledges alternative viewpoints because of not being overly positive with a bias
towards MRI technology but rather acknowledges its flaws and how those flaws can be fixed or dealt with using
CT technology. The information contained in the source can be verified elsewhere. For example, the author says
that MRI and CT scans allow for a higher diagnostic accuracy for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and
better planning of radiation therapies, which can be corroborated by Shady Hermana and Micheal Young in their
publication CT-scan Image Production Procedures as they stated that CT is a commonly used diagnostic and
screening imaging tool for numerous indications and offers advantages over X-ray and nuclear imaging in
accuracy and clarity for detecting many abnormalities, and the scans can be performed relatively quickly. This
article aims to show the significance and role of artificial intelligence in MRI and CT scans, specifically for
musculoskeletal disorders. The audience of this journal is scientists, radiologists, and image operators who are
specifically looking to expand the use of MRI scans by minimizing radiation exposure for patients. The article is
appropriate for this purpose and audience because it accurately describes the performances of MRI and CT
scans in various subsections, including “image production,” and how artificial intelligence helps improve and
Rishik Rangaraju
12-4-22
10-1

bring out many improvements for these technologies. For example, the article explains how data can be
converted into images using the software. The digital signal on the device is stored as bits/bytes, which get
manipulated into 3d structures and images using mathematical algorithms.