Low‐field MRI: Clinical promise and challenges

Modern MRI scanners have trended toward higher field strengths to maximize signal and resolution while minimizing scan time. However, high-field devices remain expensive to install and operate, making them scarce outside of high-income countries and major population centers. Low-field strength scanners have drawn renewed academic, industry, and philanthropic interest due to advantages that could dramatically increase imaging access, including lower cost and portability. Nevertheless, low-field MRI still faces inherent limitations in image quality that come with decreased signal. In this article, we review advantages and disadvantages of low-field MRI scanners, describe hardware and software innovations that…

• NI
  National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

  Awards: DP1‐NS122038, T32‐NS091006, R56‐NS099348
• NI
  National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering

  Award: 5T32EB009384