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Background Recently introduced MRI techniques facilitate accelerated examinations or increased resolution with the same duration. Further techniques offer homogeneous image quality in regions with anatomical transitions. The question arises whether and how these techniques can be adopted for routine diagnostic imaging. Methods Narrative review with an educational focus based on current literature research and practical experiences of different professions involved (physicians, MRI technologists/radiographers, physics/biomedical engineering). Different hardware manufacturers are considered. Results and Conclusions Compressed sensing and simultaneous multi-slice imaging are novel acceleration techniques with different yet complimentary applications. They do not suffer from classical signal-to-noise-ratio penalties. Combining 3 D and acceleration techniques facilitates new broader examination protocols, particularly for clinical brain imaging. In further regions of the nervous systems mainly specific applications appear to benefit from recent technological improvements. Key points:  Citation Format

Background Recently introduced MRI techniques offer improved image quality and facilitate examinations of patients even when artefacts are expected. They pave the way for novel diagnostic imaging strategies in neuroradiology. These methods include improved 3D imaging, movement and metal artefact reduction techniques as well as Dixon techniques. Methods Narrative review with an educational focus based on current literature research and practical experiences of different professions involved (physicians, MRI technologists/radiographers, physics/biomedical engineering). Different hardware manufacturers are considered. Results and Conclusions 3D FLAIR is an example of a versatile 3D Turbo Spin Echo sequence with broad applicability in routine brain protocols. It facilitates detection of smaller lesions and more precise measurements for follow-up imaging. It also offers high sensitivity for extracerebral lesions. 3D techniques are increasingly adopted for imaging arterial vessel walls, cerebrospinal fluid spaces and peripheral nerves. Improved hybrid-radial acquisitions are available for movement artefact reduction in a broad application spectrum. Novel susceptibility artefact reduction techniques for targeted application supplement previously established metal artefact reduction sequences. Most of these techniques can be further adapted to achieve the desired diagnostic performances. Dixon techniques allow for homogeneous fat suppression in transition areas and calculation of different image contrasts based on a single acquisition. Key points:  Citation Format

We report the case of a 74 year old man with a brain stem infarction, temporal headache and elevated inflammatory parameters. Giant cell arteritis with involvement of the temporal and vertebral arteries was proven by histology, duplex sonography and MRI. Although intensive immunosuppressive therapy was started, the patient developed two brain infarcts within 6 months. Initially, C‑reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were significantly elevated, but normalized over time. Involvement of the vertebral artery in giant cell arteritis is thought to be rare; steroid refractory courses are very rare. Brain stem infarction might be the consequence.