Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is essential for diagnosing neurological disorders in the outpatient setting yet is largely reliant on external imaging centers. Portable MRI (pMRI) has emerged as an alternative, enabling on-site imaging in neurology clinics. This technology can improve access, reduce wait times, and enhance the patient experience without sacrificing diagnostic quality.

This prospective, multi-center study enrolled adults scheduled for a Standard-of-care brain MRI at large outpatient neurology practices. Within 48 hours, participants underwent both a pMRI scan using a 0.064T system and an sMRI scan (1.5T or 3T). Imaging sequences for both included T1, T2, FLAIR, and DWI. Following each scan, patients completed a questionnaire rating comfort, noise, claustrophobia, anxiety, and overall experience, and stated their preference. Neuroradiologists independently reviewed all images to assess concordance of pathological findings. The final analysis will include 125 cases representing common outpatient neurological conditions such as headache, brain tumors, cognitive impairment, and multiple sclerosis.

Results from the first 50 patients are promising. A high concordance rate of over 90% was observed between pMRI and sMRI for pathologies, with white matter disease, neoplasms, and chronic infarcts the most common findings. Patient-reported outcomes strongly favored pMRI. Patients were 5x more likely to prefer pMRI (66%) over sMRI (12%). Ratings for comfort, noise, claustrophobia, anxiety, and overall experience were significantly better for pMRI.

As the largest outpatient evaluation of pMRI to date, this study provides evidence supporting the feasibility of pMRI as a diagnostic tool. The findings demonstrate high diagnostic concordance with sMRI and significant patient preference for pMRI. Complete data will further define the diagnostic capabilities of pMRI and its role in expanding access to essential neuroimaging within routine neurology practice.