1.5 vs 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Abstract

The second part of this review deals with experiences in neuroradiological and pediatric examinations using modern magnetic resonance imaging systems with 1.5 T and 3 T, with special attention paid to experiences in pediatric cardiac imaging. In addition, whole-body examinations, which are widely used for diagnostic purposes in systemic diseases, are compared with respect to the image quality obtained in different body parts at both field strengths. A systematic overview of the technical differences at 1.5 T and 3 T has been presented in part 1 of this review, as well as several organ-based magnetic resonance imaging applications including musculoskeletal imaging, abdominal imaging, and prostate diagnostics.

The Clinical Utility of Magnetic Resonance Imaging According to Field Strength, Specifically Addressing the Breadth of Current State-of-the-Art Systems, Which Include 0.55 T, 1.5 T, 3 T, and 7 T

“…There are many clinical applications that benefit from the increase in SNR at 3 T, such as the brain and MSK system, but there are also applications where disadvantages at 3 T favor 1.5 T, including specifically the presence of metal implants and lung imaging 18,19 . When first introduced, 3 T was hampered by SAR limitations, inhomogeneous RF excitation, and the lack of well-designed array coils (for signal reception).…”

“…There are many clinical applications that benefit from the increase in SNR at 3 T, such as the brain and MSK system, but there are also applications where disadvantages at 3 T favor 1.5 T, including specifically the presence of metal implants and lung imaging. 18,19 FIGURE 3. Susceptibility-weighted images, minimum intensity projection, of the brain at (A) 1.5 T, (B) 3 T, and (C) 7 T. The images presented are in the axial plane at the level of the lateral ventricles, with optimized parameters according to field strength.…”

Feasibility and Implementation of a 4D Free-Breathing Variable Density Stack-of-Stars Functional Magnetic Resonance Urography in Young Children Without Sedation

“…4 Therefore, functional MRU has been well established in the diagnostic workup. [5][6][7] However, in very young children, general anesthesia or conscious sedation is typically required because of the length of the study and to prevent artifacts related to patient motion. 4,8 This complicates the entire procedure and leads to longer duration and potential risks to the child, which has recently drawn particular attention in the community.…”

“…Magnetic resonance urography is a valuable imaging modality that combines anatomical imaging of the kidneys and urinary tract with functional evaluation in a single examination without exposing the child to ionizing radiation 4 . Therefore, functional MRU has been well established in the diagnostic workup 5–7 . However, in very young children, general anesthesia or conscious sedation is typically required because of the length of the study and to prevent artifacts related to patient motion 4,8 .…”