7T MR Safety

ISMRM Safety Committee

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

39 Scopus citations

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy (MRI/MRS) at 7T represents an exciting advance in MR technology, with intriguing possibilities to enhance image spatial, spectral, and contrast resolution. To ensure the safe use of this technology while still harnessing its potential, clinical staff and researchers need to be cognizant of some safety concerns arising from the increased magnetic field strength and higher Larmor frequency. The higher static magnetic fields give rise to enhanced transient bioeffects and an increased risk of adverse incidents related to electrically conductive implants. Many technical challenges remain and the continuing rapid pace of development of 7T MRI/MRS is likely to present further challenges to ensuring safety of this technology in the years ahead. The recent regulatory clearance for clinical diagnostic imaging at 7T will likely increase the installed base of 7T systems, particularly in hospital environments with little prior ultrahigh-field MR experience. Informed risk/benefit analyses will be required, particularly where implant manufacturer-published 7T safety guidelines for implants are unavailable. On behalf of the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, the aim of this article is to provide a reference document to assist institutions developing local institutional policies and procedures that are specific to the safe operation of 7T MRI/MRS. Details of current 7T technology and the physics underpinning its functionality are reviewed, with the aim of supporting efforts to expand the use of 7T MRI/MRS in both research and clinical environments. Current gaps in knowledge are also identified, where additional research and development are required. Level of Evidence 5. Technical Efficacy 2. J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2021;53:333–346.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)333-346
Number of pages14
JournalJournal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Volume53
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2021

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
The authors acknowledge the many useful comments from members of the ISMRM Safety Committee, the High Field Safety Group, and the High Field Study Group, in particular Michael Steckner, Johan van den Brink, Scott Reeder, Vikas Gulani, Greg Metzger, Benedikt Poser, and Karin Markenroth Bloch.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2020 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine

Keywords

  • 7Tesla MRI/MRS safety
  • SAR
  • implants
  • numerical simulations
  • parallel transmission
  • radiofrequency coils

Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR) tags

  • P41
  • MRSAFE

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