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[Risks associated with MRI: safety rules, incidents, and accidents]
E de Kerviler1, C de Bazelaire, O Mathieu
1Service de Radiologie, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Claude-Vellefaux, Paris. eric.de-kerviler@sls.aphp.fr
Journal De Radiologie
|August 19, 2005
Summary
Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging is biologically safe, but components can cause reversible patient discomfort. Vigilance and adherence to safety protocols are crucial to prevent severe adverse events, including fatalities, during MR procedures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging Physics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Radiological Safety
Context:
- Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging is a widely used diagnostic tool.
- While MR imaging is considered biologically safe, potential risks exist from its components.
- Patient screening is performed, but vigilance is paramount to prevent accidents.
Purpose:
- To review reported accidents associated with MR imaging.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying these MR-related incidents.
- To outline essential preventive measures for MR safety.
Summary:
- MR imaging components like magnetic fields and radiofrequency pulses can cause patient inconvenience, though typically reversible.
- Despite patient screening, lack of vigilance or safety knowledge can lead to severe adverse events, including fatalities.
- This review details reported MR accidents, their causes, and crucial prevention strategies.
Impact:
- Enhances understanding of MR imaging risks beyond biological effects.
- Provides critical information for healthcare professionals to improve patient safety protocols.
- Aims to reduce the incidence of severe adverse events and fatalities in MR environments.