Performance of ventilators compatible with magnetic resonance imaging: a bench study

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging and Diagnostics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Respiratory Care

Background:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for diagnosing neurological conditions.
• MRI-compatible equipment is essential due to magnetic field interference.
• Limited data exists on the performance of MRI-compatible ventilators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of several MRI-compatible ventilators.
• To assess accuracy in delivering tidal volume (V(T)), F(IO2), and PEEP.
• To compare MRI-compatible ventilators with a standard ICU ventilator.

Main Methods:

• Four portable MRI-compatible ventilators and one ICU ventilator were tested.
• Ventilators were operated in volume control/continuous mandatory ventilation mode.
• Key parameters including V(T), F(IO2), PEEP, and pressure-relief valves were measured at various settings.

Main Results:

• Significant errors in V(T) (-28.1% to 25.5%) and PEEP (-29.2% to 42.5%) were observed across MRI-compatible ventilators.
• Fraction of inspired oxygen (F(IO2)) errors ranged from -13.3% to 25.3%.
• Only the ICU ventilator (Servo-i) accurately maintained all tested parameters; pressure-relief valves functioned in all units.

Conclusions:

• No tested MRI-compatible ventilator consistently maintained set V(T), F(IO2), and PEEP.
• Close monitoring of patient vital signs is recommended during MRI and transport, especially for those with respiratory instability.