Comparative Analysis of Parameters of Magnetic Resonance Examinations for the Accreditation Process of a Diagnostic Image Center in Curitiba/Brazil

Due to increase demand for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), there was a need to attest to the quality of exams with quality certification. In the area of diagnostic imaging, several services seek certification. The interested institution must ensure that the minimum standards required are met. Thus, this study aimed to analyze and compare the parameters of MRI exams at a Center for Image Diagnosis in Curitiba/PR, Brazil, in relation to the guidelines of the Imaging Diagnostic Accreditation Program (PADI), for the evaluation and readjustment of the standardization for the accreditation process. Examination images from the musculoskeletal system were collected and recorded in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) form, as is the submission standard for the accrediting organization. For this article, the results of the cervical spine exam were selected, following the sequence planning and routine protocol. Then, the results were compared to the literature in the area and to the guidelines of the accrediting organization, PADI, regarding four evaluation points: mandatory minimum sequences, image contrast, anatomical coverage and spatial resolution. In the conformity assessments, the protocols were shown to be within the established standards and apt to be accredited.