Low‐Field Strength MRI Applications in Clinical Neuroimaging: A Systematic Literature Review

ABSTRACT Introduction Low‐field MRI applications in clinical neuroimaging are becoming very common despite potential limitations that may hinder the ability to meet current clinical expectations relative to the advanced high‐field strength scanners. The present review offers an in‐depth evaluation of the clinical applications of low‐field MRI in neuroimaging. Methods This study employed a systematic review methodology to collect data from primary studies of various designs via relevant federated electronic databases in EBSCOhost (including Web of Science and SCOPUS). The included articles were subjected to data extraction, quality assessment, and textual narrative synthesis. Results The following themes surrounding the clinical applications were developed through qualitative synthesis: (1) field strength, diagnostic accuracy, and image quality in neuroimaging applications, including MRI‐guided intraoperative procedures and therapeutic planning; (2) advances and benefits of neuroimaging; (3) geographical spread of low‐field scanners in neuroimaging. Conclusions The results demonstrate that several commercially available low‐field MRI scanners identified in the included studies offer considerable clinical relevance and versatility for diverse MRI neuroimaging applications. Despite issues related to sensitivity due to increased image noise, a low contrast‐to‐noise ratio, and blurring, these factors may render them less desirable. Nonetheless, the findings of this review indicate that the use of low‐field MRI in various neuroimaging applications, along with future improvements in this field, offers a viable and cost‐efficient choice for conducting clinical imaging procedures. Thus, urgent considerations to enhance the global accessibility and availability of neuroimaging MRI services utilizing low‐field MRI scanners are encouraged.