FLAIR-Imaging in multiple sclerosis: A comparative MR-Study at 1.5 and 3.0 Tesla

Purpose: The FLAIR technique is one of the most sensitive techniques for the visualization of white matter lesions (WML) in the brain. However, operating at higher field strength imaging parameters have to be adapted and optimized. Aim of this prospective study was 1) to identify the optimal TE for FLAIR-imaging at 3T assessing three different echo-times qualitatively and quantitatively (TE 100, 120 and 140ms) and 2) to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of high-field 3T MRI FLAIR-Imaging in comparison to conventional 1.5T MRI in patients with proven multiple sclerosis. Method and materials: In 30 consecutive pati…