(RadioGraphics. 1984;4:44-47.)
© RSNA, 1984

Operating magnetic field strength for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging

¹ From the Department of Radiology, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C. Presently at the Neurological Institute of New York, Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY.

There are many factors that affect the efficacy of NMR images. Their quality depends on the choice of pulses, radio frequency coil design, magnetic field strength, absorption of radiofrequency signal and imaging time. The choice of an NMR imaging system, even today, depends not alone on the operating field strength of the magnet, but must also take account of operating costs and problems of maintenance and environmental control. As we learn more about clinical NMR imaging, it is possible that the consideration of magnetic field strength alone may become only a small part of the overall evaluation of an NMR imaging system for clinical application.

There are many options in NMR imaging, and it is not yet clear which choices are the best. There is a great deal more to be learned in the years to come about NMR imaging, regardless of the system with which one chooses to work. The individual radiologist will have to make the final decisions based on the facts stated above and taking account of the site and financial resources available.