7T 3T CNS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Comparison of 7T MRI with 3T MRI in Neurological Disorders
IRAS ID
238394
Contact name
Keith Muir
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used routinely to investigate neurological conditions. MRI scanners use strong magnetic fields to produce detailed images. Magnetic field strength is measured in Tesla (T): routine clinical typically scanners use magnetic fields of 1.5T or 3T. Higher magnetic fields are now becoming available for clinical use and the University of Glasgow has installed a clinical 7T scanner at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital site for clinical and basic human research. The higher magnetic field strength of 7T scanning may have advantages over 3T for some situations, including the potential for higher resolution images of small structures, greater sensitivity for blood vessels (including veins, arteries, and old blood), and ability to investigate the chemical make-up of tissues. At present, 7T MRI can be undertaken for the brain. In order to explore the potential clinical value of 7T imaging, we wish to undertake comparisons with routine 3T MRI scans in patients with neurological conditions that might benefit from 7T scanning for the reasons outlined. We anticipate that suitable cases might include conditions affecting small brain structures (some types of epilepsy, multiple sclerosis or other inflamatory conditions, stroke), brain tumours, and blood vessel problems (aneurysms, arterio-venous malformations).
REC name
West of Scotland REC 1
REC reference
18/WS/0141
Date of REC Opinion
6 Nov 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion