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Magnetic field strength issues in magnetic resonance imaging
D Marshall1, D Hailey, D Menon
1Swedish Council on Technology Assessment in Health Care, Stockholm.
Summary
This review examines magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) field strengths, discussing practical and clinical factors. Canada leads in high-field MRI use, primarily in teaching hospitals for research and patient care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiology
- Physics
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology has evolved significantly.
- Varying magnetic field strengths impact MRI's capabilities and applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current status of MRI technology concerning magnetic field strength.
- To analyze the practical and clinical implications of different MRI field strengths.
- To present global distribution data of MRI units by field strength.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of MRI technology and applications.
- Analysis of practical considerations: safety, throughput, and costs.
- Examination of clinical aspects influenced by magnetic field strength.
- Compilation and presentation of global MRI unit distribution data.
Main Results:
- Higher magnetic field strengths offer distinct advantages and challenges.
- Practical aspects like safety, throughput, and cost are strongly influenced by field strength.
- Clinical utility of MRI varies with field strength, impacting diagnostic capabilities.
- Canada shows a high proportion of high-field MRI units, concentrated in teaching hospitals.
Conclusions:
- The choice of MRI field strength involves balancing technical, economic, and clinical factors.
- Teaching hospitals in Canada utilize high-field MRI extensively for both research and clinical purposes.
- Global distribution patterns reflect varying adoption rates and strategic deployment of MRI technology.