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Abstract
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Article Information:
Safety Assessment of the Operation of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) System at 37 Military Hospital using the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) Levels
R. Otchere Mintah, C. Schandorf and J.H. Amuasi
Corresponding Author: Richard Otchere Mintah
Submitted: 2011 March, 05
Accepted: 2011 May, 18
Published: 2011 June, 20 |
Abstract:
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In this present study, the Safety Assessment of the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) levels of the
operation of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) System at 37 Military Hospital was done. The main aim
of this research work was to verify whether all the specific physical parameters (a strong magnetic field, rapidchanging
magnetic field gradients, and RF energy) as expressed in terms of SARs in the MR system are within
the established limits set by the United States Food and Drugs Administrations (USFDA) and other
international organizations. Protocols were developed to assess the radiological health and safety impact of
some selected MR imaging procedures on patients. The parameter considered to be assessed was; Specific
Absorption Rate (SAR); temperature rise in the body. The Smart brain and Routine lumbar Spine examination
cards specific to brain and lumbar spine anatomy techniques were used. For brain examinations the T1W_SE
sagittal PH, and the T1W_SE Tra_PH protocols gave the highest SAR values with a mean value 1.6 W/kg for
3 minutes. For the lumbar spine examinations, the T1W_TSE axial protocols exposed patients to the highest
consistent SAR value of 2.8 W/kg. The T2W_TSE axial protocol gave the highest SAR value of 3.8 W/kg with
a mean value of 3.1 W/kg with the highest exposure time of 4 min with a mean of 2.5 min. These SAR values
were within the limits recommended by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). To
optimize patient safety, local guidelines for safety assessment were developed which include; in house
screening with a metal detector, filling in the screening form and ensuring that safety requirements are met
before entering the MR room. The choice of protocols that minimize SAR values and strict compliance to safety
protocols developed at the MRI facility therefore should be followed and continuously updated to achieve
maximum safety for patient in and around an MRI facility.
Key words: Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), Magnetic Resonance Imaging, USFDA, T1W_SE sagittal PH, T1W_SE Tra_PH, T1W_TSE axial, T2W_TSE axial protocol,
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Cite this Reference:
R. Otchere Mintah, C. Schandorf and J.H. Amuasi, . Safety Assessment of the Operation of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) System at 37 Military Hospital using the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) Levels. Asian Journal of Medical Sciences, (3): 91-105.
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ISSN (Online): 2040-8773
ISSN (Print): 2040-8765 |
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