Debate: Low-Field Vs. High-Field MRI for Radiation Therapy Moderators

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-30-2025

Publication Title

Med Phys

Keywords

conference abstract, cost effectiveness analysis, human, linear accelerator, magnetic field, MRI guided linear accelerator, MRI scanner, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, radiotherapy, soft tissue, therapy, treatment planning, workflow

Abstract

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has become an indispensable tool in modern radiation therapy (RT), offering superior soft-tissue contrast for improved target delineation and treatment planning compared to conventional methods. A critical consideration involves the selection of magnetic field strength, leading to distinct technological pathways utilizing both low-field and high-field systems. These systems are employed both as standalone imagers for crucial planning stages and as integrated components within MRI-Linac systems for real-time treatment guidance. This session will provide a comparative analysis, beginning with the application of standalone low-field and high-field MRI systems for treatment planning. We will explore their respective advantages, such as potential cost-effectiveness and reduced geometric distortion with low-field MRI, versus enhanced spatial resolution and functional imaging capabilities with high-field MRI for precise tumor definition. Subsequently, the focus will shift to MRI-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT), specifically examining the development and clinical integration of both low-field and high-field MRI-Linac systems. Discussions will encompass current platforms, unique workflow adaptations required for real-time image-guided treatment delivery, technological challenges of integrating MRI with linear accelerators, and emerging clinical experience using these advanced guidance systems. Through presentations by experts actively working with these distinct technologies, this session aims to deliver a balanced perspective on the current state and future directions of employing low-field versus high-field MRI, both as a critical tool for radiation therapy planning and as the core imaging modality within integrated MRI-Linac guidance systems. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the fundamental role and importance of MRI in both radiation therapy planning and guidance. 2. Compare the principal advantages and clinical applications of standalone low-field versus high-field MRI systems specifically for treatment planning in RT. 3. Discuss the technological developments, workflow considerations, challenges, and clinical experiences associated with both low-field and high-field integrated MRI-Linac systems used for treatment guidance. 4. Identify key considerations and future directions in the ongoing development and clinical implementation of MRIguided radiotherapy, encompassing both planning and delivery aspects.

Volume

52

Issue

10

First Page

27

Last Page

27

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