Low-SAR Trabecular Bone Micro-MRI for Use at Ultra-High Field

Jeremy F. Magland¹, Alex C. Wright¹, Hamidreza Saligheh-Rad¹, Felix W. Wehrli¹

Recent developments in trabecular bone (TB) micro-MRI has allowed 3D structural depiction at resolution sufficient to detect small changes in bone architecture over time. The principle limiting factor to improved resolution is the signal-to-noise efficiency. The introduction of ultra-high field whole body scanners has opened the possibility of increased signal efficiency. However, existing sequences for TB imaging may exceed SAR limits at 7 Tesla. Here we compare two variable echo time, low-SAR alternatives for imaging TB at ultra-high field, one radial and one Cartesian. While each sequence has advantages, the radial sequence gives an overall better image quality, offering a feasible, low-SAR alternative for imaging at 7 Tesla.