MR Imaging of the Musculoskeletal System Using Ultrahigh Field (7T) MR Imaging

PET Clin. 2018 Oct;13(4):551-565. doi: 10.1016/j.cpet.2018.05.008.

Abstract

MR imaging is an indispensable instrument for the diagnosis of musculoskeletal diseases. In vivo MR imaging at 7T offers many advantages, including increased signal-to-noise ratio, higher spatial resolution, improved spectral resolution for spectroscopy, improved sensitivity for X-nucleus imaging, and decreased image acquisition times. There are also however technical challenges of imaging at a higher field strength compared with 1.5 and 3T MR imaging systems. We discuss the many potential opportunities as well as the challenges presented by 7T MR imaging systems and highlight recent developments in in vivo research imaging of musculoskeletal applications in general and cartilage, skeletal muscle, and bone in particular.

Keywords: 7T; Bone; Cartilage; MR imaging; Muscle.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Diffusion Tensor Imaging / methods
  • Gadolinium DTPA
  • Humans
  • Isotopes
  • Magnetic Fields*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy / methods
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / pathology*
  • Radioisotopes
  • Signal-To-Noise Ratio

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Isotopes
  • Radioisotopes
  • Gadolinium DTPA