Body and cardiovascular MR imaging at 3.0 T. Review uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • Potential advantages of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging at 3 T include higher signal-to-noise ratios, better image contrast, particularly in gadolinium-enhanced applications, and better spectral separation for spectroscopic applications. In terms of clinical imaging, these advantages can mean higher-spatial-resolution images, faster imaging, and improved MR spectroscopy. However, achieving superior imaging and spectroscopic quality at 3 T can be challenging. This review discusses many of the problems encountered in body and cardiovascular MR imaging at 3 T, such as increased susceptibility, B1 field inhomogeneity, and increased specific absorption rate. The article also considers solutions that are being pursued, such as parallel imaging, variable-rate selective excitation, and variable flip angle sequences. A review of the most commonly used pulse sequences provides practical tips on how these can be optimized for 3-T imaging. In the coming few years, substantial improvements in 3-T technology for clinical imaging and spectroscopy will undoubtedly be seen. An understanding of the basic principles on which these developments are based will help radiologists translate the advances into better imaging studies and, ultimately, better patient care.

publication date

  • September 1, 2007

Research

keywords

  • Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Image Enhancement
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 34548093058

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1148/radiol.2443060582

PubMed ID

  • 17709825

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 244

issue

  • 3