Abstract
Purpose In light of the steadily increasing need for economical efficacy and capacity utilization
it was the aim of this proof-of-concept work to implement an automated logfile-based
analysis tool for MRI scanner utilization and to establish a process analysis. As
a primary step, analyses of scanner and protocol utilization, parametrization of protocol
processes, their durations, age dependency, and scan efficacy were to be tested.
Materials and Methods Logfiles were continuously extracted from a 1.5 T MR scanner (Philips Achieva) and
automatically explored for relevant scan parameters. Parameters were extracted into
a database and logically combined to protocol parameters. Visualization was achieved
using PowerBI (Microsoft, USA). Data aggregation comprised a day-based and protocol-based
strategy. In addition, age- and regional-based testing was performed. The frequency
of protocol usage was evaluated and those protocols with frequent usage compared regarding
efficacy to those rarely used.
Results After successful technical implementation, 3659 MR exams were available for further
analysis. Out of a plethora of parameters, those relevant to the understanding of
the scan process were identified. The initial results mirror the daily scanner usage
and allow identifying, e. g., shortened scanner usage on Fridays or longer examination
times in children. A scan efficacy of 69.6 ± 17.6 % excluding preparation process
was identified as a parameter with high potential to be optimized in daily routine.
Conclusion The logfile-based analysis of MR scanner processes was successfully introduced and
holds the promise to be extended into a comprehensive analytic tool for the analysis
and optimization of scanner processes. In combination with other variables from the
departmental or institutional infrastructure or patient-specific information such
tool may be developed into a intelligent steering tool.
Key Points:
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The automated log file analysis of MR-scanner processes was successfully introduced
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The log file-analysis allows for a detailed analysis of scanner processes
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From a log file-analysis, there is potential benefit to users, applications specialists
and developers
Citation Format
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Frydrychowicz A, Boppel T, Sieber V et al. Automatic, log file-based process analysis
of a clinical 1.5T MR scanner: a proof-of-concept study. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2021;
193: 919 – 927
Key words
technical aspects - imaging sequences - health policy and practice - cost-effectiveness
- MR-imaging
