7T MRI is a non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging technique, which uses a strong magnetic field of 7 Tesla to image human anatomies. Compared to clinical MRI at 1.5 and 3T, 7T MRI enables the imaging of human body and tissues with very high resolution (sub-millimeter). Many imaging tectiologies have been developed and optimized for 7T MRI, some imaging protocols can generate the paths of nerves, some protocols can detect functional maps of the brain, some images can depict angiogram for vascular imaging, iron deposition and metabolic activities can also be quantified. 7T MRI has been shown to detect subtle abnormalities related to several neurological diseases (Epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis, cerebral small vessel disease etc) and can guide the placement of deep brain stimulation.

The radiofrequency of a 7T MRI system (about 300 MHz) is much lower than those of Wi-Fi and cell phone. It does not cause any ionizing radiation (like X-ray)! FDA has cleared some 7T MRI systems for clinical use. However, since it is a very powerful magnet, patients/ volunteers with implants) in their body may not be eligible for scans. The main risk of 7T MRI is the heating due to radiofrequency (RF) pulses which need to be closely monitored. The subject may feel dizzy when moving in the out of the magnet, and the space is more confined compared to standard clinical MRI at 1.5 and 3T. Although there is no evidence of harm, persons that are or may be pregnant should not undergo 7T MRI. Final risk evaluation of a subject should be performed by a trained personnel at the imaging site. Also persons lower than 30kg/66lbs should not take 7T scans.

This depends on yourself and your health care provider. 7T MRI is not a treatment, but a very powerful diagnostic tool. You can undergo 7T MRI as often as your provider requests and you feel comfortable. Since there is no ionizing radiation hazard, there is no limitation to the number of visits or duration of each visit. However if you are or may be pregnant, you should not undergo 7T MRI.

Please consult with your healthcare provider and insurance company. Some but not all 7T MRI exams are covered by insurance.

This depends on yourself and your health care provider. 7T MRI is not a treatment, but a very powerful diagnostic tool. You can undergo 7T MRI as often as your provider requests and you feel comfortable. Since there is no ionizing radiation hazard, there is no limitation to the number of visits or duration of each visit. However if you are or may be pregnant, you should not undergo 7T MRI.

Search for 7T MRI sites close to my location.