Application of diffusion-weighted imaging based on different mathematical models in evaluation of breast tumors

Magnetic resonance diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) is a imaging technology that extracts the direction, limitation, and deviation Gaussian distribution of the restricted diffusion movement of water molecules in bio-tissues, and can visualize the diffusion characteristics via digitalizing and quantitative processing. Diffusion mode and degree of water molecules vary among different types and grades of breast tumors. DWI can better reflect the differences of diffusion characteristics of water molecules among different breast tumors, thus providing basis for differential diagnosis and evaluation of curative effect after treatment. This article summarizes the imaging basis and principle of DWI and its application and limitations in evaluation of breast tumors. (authors)