Brain and spine imaging benefit from increased field strength

April 30, 2008 Diagnostic Imaging. Brain and spine imaging benefit from increased field strength Jump in resolution and acquisition speed from 1.5T to 3T allows precise measurement of neurotransmitter concentrations Karen Sandrick -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Neuroimaging with MRI at 3T is superior for nearly every application in the brain and spine, and it is certainly inferior for none. The technique has unique strengths for performing vascular work and functional brain imaging, but there is nothing that a 3T MR scanner can't do better than a 1.5T machine. While 3T poses technical challenges, such as an increased specific absorption rate (SAR), tools are available to master them. The only major deterrent to more widespread 3T use—its fundamentally higher cost—is dissipating as clinical imaging centers make a strong financial case for the technology.

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