CMSC 2023 | Barriers to implementing standardized MRI protocol for MS

David Li, MD, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, explains the main barriers clinics face when adopting standardized MRI protocol for multiple sclerosis (MS). Centers with older equipment may struggle to make the slices in time, whereas centers with new scanners will find it easier to adopt the new protocols. In particular, scanners with 3D acquisition are faster to adapt and are also able to reconstruct slices similar to those used in the past, allowing for more direct comparisons. Another obstacle to overcome is the time taken by scanners, which is related to the quality of equipment. Modern scanners have reconstructions to reduce scan time, and recently, progress has been made with artificial intelligence to reconstruct images faster. Three major scanner manufacturers now have standardized protocols within their software library, but this only benefits centers with the latest software. Another key barrier is spreading awareness of the need for standardized protocols, which the CMSC is currently committed to. Surveys are a useful way of drawing centers’ attention to these issues and compelling them to compare themselves to each other to improve their quality of care. This interview took place at the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC) Congress 2023 in Aurora, CO.

These works are owned by Magdalen Medical Publishing (MMP) and are protected by copyright laws and treaties around the world. All rights are reserved.