Utility of respiratory motion correction and effects on dosimetry in imaging with integrated Y-90 PET/MRI after radioembolization of liver tumors


Demir B., Soydal Ç., Mesci I., Celebioglu E. C., Bilgic M. S., Kuru Oz D., ...More

Physica Medica, vol.142, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 142
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2026.105717
  • Journal Name: Physica Medica
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Keywords: Liver, Magnetic resonance imaging, Microsphere, Positron-emission tomography, Radioembolization, Yttrium-90
  • Ankara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose In this study we aimed to investigate the utility of respiratory motion correction using the Q.Static algorithm in integrated Y-90 PET/MR imaging and its impact on dosimetric accuracy, image quality, and dose-volume histograms following radioembolization of the liver tumors. Methods This retrospective single-center analysis included 23 patients treated with Y-90 resin microspheres and imaged with Y-90 PET/MRI. Respiratory motion-corrected (Q.Static) and standard non-corrected PET reconstructions were compared for dosimetric variables, image quality (signal-to-noise ratio, SNR), and activity quantification. Tumor dose-volume histograms (D1–D99) and absorbed doses were calculated with absolute quantification and local dose deposition method. Bland-Altman plots and regression analyses were employed to assess differences between the two methods and investigate correlations with tumor volume. Results Q.Static sequences resulted in 7.08 % (95 % CI: [+4.82 %] – [+9.34 %]) higher tumor, 9.38 % (95 % CI: [+7.55 %] – [+10.67 %]) higher normal tissue absorbed doses compared to standard reconstructions, resulting in similar T/N ratios. In addition, Q.Static images demonstrated significantly higher D1, D5, and D10 values but lower D90 and D95 values. SNR was 33.62 % lower, and extrahepatic activity was 46.65 % higher in Q.Static sequences, reflecting noise-related degradation. Tumor volume significantly influenced dose variability, with smaller lesions showing greater differences between methods. Conclusion Respiratory motion correction in Y-90 PET/MRI may improve contrast and dose quantification in smaller lesions but may reduce image quality in low-activity cases due to noise. While promising for accurate dosimetry, its impact on clinical outcomes and response prediction warrants further studies.