High accuracy and contrast resolution in ultra-low field magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at low magnetic field strengths is known to have a comparatively high contrast resolution. Current techniques increasing the signal to noise ratio 3 to 4 times allow for an improvement in the spatial resolution still maintaining the high contrast resolution. The contributing features to this advancement are improvements in software, development of new radiofrequency coils and image processing computors. The subsequent improvement in image evaluation and the access to added information make for a high accuracy in clinical diagnosis and research. The present potential of imaging at ultra-low (0.02 tesla) magnetic field strengths is illustrated with examples from clinical practice and research.