Ultra-low field MRI in memory assessment

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Feasibility of obtaining brain structural diagnostic markers in dementia with ultra-low field MRI

• IRAS ID

  335074

• Contact name

  Itamar Ronen

• Contact email

  i.ronen@bsms.ac.uk

• Sponsor organisation

  University of Sussex

• Duration of Study in the UK

  2 years, 0 months, 1 days

• Research summary

  Neuroimaging, such as brain computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is an integral part of dementia assessment pathway in memory clinic. MRI is superior to CT as it has a higher image resolution, and increased potential of identifying vascular changes such as small vessel disease, small bleeds, as well as brain inflammation. The clinical population of memory clinics is likely to be older, more frail and have numerous co-morbidities that could include contraindications to having a scan (such as an implanted medical device) or make having a scan in the MRI suite an uncomfortable experience.
  A low field MRI device uses much lower strength of magnetic field when compared to typical clinical scanner (0.25 to 1T) and is therefore much less restrictive in respect of contraindications. Moreover, it is very portable and can be used in a community setting, such as a GP practice or a memory clinic. If low-field MRI was a reliable alternative to a standard MRI performed in a hospital setting, this would improve the access and availability of brain imaging to memory clinic patients and likely reduce the waiting time for diagnosis.

  We are planning to evaluate the clinical utility, reliability and patient experience of low-field MRI in dementia diagnosis by recruiting 70 participants from memory clinics in Sussex and Kent, who have their clinical MRI scan and a low-field MRI scan at the same visit.
  The images obtained with the low-field scan will be compared to the standard images to see whether they provide reliable diagnostic information. Additionally we would like to perform quantitative image analysis on a sample of these scans.
  We will investigate patient experience of having the low-field scan, by using a short experience and satisfaction questionnaire, and in-depth qualitative interview in a subset of patients.

• REC name

  London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  26/LO/0121

• Date of REC Opinion

  18 May 2026

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion