Clinical Imaging of Patients with Spinal Hardware at 0.55T: Diagnostic Feasibility and Metallic Artifact Comparison to 1.5/3T

Motivation: MR image quality concerns due to metallic implants may be addressed by preferentially scanning on 0.55T units. Goal(s): To assess image quality, metallic artifacts, and diagnostic agreement secondary to spinal hardware at 0.55T compared to higher-field imaging. Approach: Two blinded neuroradiologists independently reviewed 20 0.55T studies and 10 paired high-field studies. Diagnostic efficacy of 0.55T scans was assessed via pick-list, and image quality and metal artifact reduction were assigned scaled ratings. Results: 0.55T produced studies with high diagnostic efficacy (16/20 studies had complete or near-complete agreement) and equivalent or improved image quality compared to higher-field images. Impact: Commercial 0.55T MRI systems may improve the appearance of artifacts caused by spinal hardware compared to higher fields, and can be used in routine clinical practice without compromising image quality or diagnostic efficacy.