3T MR imaging of the musculoskeletal system (Part I): considerations, coils, and challenges.

As 3T MR imaging systems become more wide-spread in the clinical realm, a full understanding of the opportunities for image improvement and the limitations in the applications of the signal gain is needed. It is clear that even with current coil technology, much of the gain in signal can be harnessed effectively; however, continued coil development is necessary to realize the full potential of 3T, especially with the wonderful synergy that can be achieved with the use of parallel imaging and multiple-channel phased-array extremity coils. Furthermore, despite the theoretic imaging challenges at higher field strengths (eg, susceptibility, chemical shift, SAR, pulsation, T1 time prolongation, and T2 time shortening), the techniques and methods that were discussed above can eliminate any obstacles to clinical imaging. This creates excellent opportunities to improve image quality, spatial resolution, and diagnostic accuracy in the musculo-skeletal system. From the author's experience, the superb image quality has impressed referring orthopedic surgeons, and the reduction in scan time has resulted in greater patient satisfaction and reduced anxiety.