Benefits and limitations of diffusion imaging at 7T with a high-performance gradient system: a comparative study with 3T

Motivation: While 7T MRI offers advantages over 3T in SNR, there are challenges associated with 7T diffusion imaging, such as faster signal decay and more pronounced B0 and B1 inhomogeneity. These issues raise questions about whether the benefits of 7T diffusion imaging outweigh those of 3T. Understanding these is crucial for advancing future neuroimaging research. Goal(s): To compare the performance of 3T and 7T MRI in diffusion imaging. Approach: Subjects were scanned at 3T and 7T using various diffusion imaging techniques. Results: 7T diffusion imaging with a high-performance gradient system offers advantages in SNR and scan times, but with limitations in B1 homogeneity. Impact: This study enhances neuroimaging by demonstrating significant advantages and limitations of 7T diffusion imaging, informing future research and clinical applications in brain health assessment.