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Update on liver MRI at 3T

Sriyesh Krishnan and Elizabeth M Hecht

3T MRI of the liver has become widely available and is routinely utilized in the clinical setting, but published scientific data comparing 1.5T with 3T is limited. Theoretically, higher field strength is desirable in body imaging owing to an increase in signal-to-noise ratio, greater spectral separation, the potential for faster scan times and improved tissue contrast on dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI. Yet, there are specific challenges to body imaging at 3T. Despite the theoretical benefits of higher field strength, tradeoffs are often required to achieve optimal image quality, for example increasing bandwidth to reduce chemical shift artifact and thereby sacrificing signal-to-noise. In some instances, such as pregnancy or in the setting of high-volume ascites, 1.5T field strength may be preferred. This article highlights the challenges and necessary adjustments required to effectively image the liver at 3T, while discussing recent studies and ongoing advances in highfield imaging as it impacts the diagnosis and monitoring of diffuse and focal liver diseases.