Optimization of Diffusion Weighted Imaging DWI Protocols by Radiographers for Early Detection of Acute Stroke

Acute ischemic stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, requiring urgent neuroimaging for accurate diagnosis and therapeutic decision making. Diffusion weighted imaging DWI has emerged as the most sensitive MRI sequence for early detection of acute cerebral ischemia, often identifying abnormalities within minutes of onset. Despite its clinical utility, variability in DWI protocols across institutions can lead to differences in image quality, diagnostic accuracy, and scan efficiency. Radiographers play a pivotal role in protocol design, parameter selection, and optimization of imaging workflows. This article discusses the importance of DWI in acute stroke imaging, identifies challenges in current protocols, and outlines strategies for optimization by radiographers. Emphasis is placed on balancing image quality, acquisition time, and patient comfort while minimizing artifacts. The article further proposes an optimized DWI protocol tailored for rapid stroke assessment. By refining DWI acquisition, radiographers can significantly improve diagnostic confidence, reduce false negatives, and contribute to better patient outcomes. Mr. Govindaraj S | Dr. Tamijeselvan S "Optimization of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) Protocols by Radiographers for Early Detection of Acute Stroke" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-9 | Issue-5 , October 2025, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd97554.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/medicine/radiology/97554/optimization-of-diffusionweighted-imaging-dwi-protocols-by-radiographers-for-early-detection-of-acute-stroke/mr-govindaraj-s