Anesthetic management and human factors in the intraoperative MRI environment

The use of intraoperative MRI technology during neurosurgery has become increasingly more common over the past several years. These surgical procedures require a specialized operating room designed to accommodate an MRI machine, as well as MRI-compatible anesthesia equipment and monitors. The MRI environment also poses unique risks and challenges to both patients and medical staff.

General anesthesia in the MRI operating room suite poses several challenges not routinely experienced in a conventional operating room suite, and anesthesia providers delivering care in these suites must complete specialized training and screening. The presence of a magnetic field, as well as reduced access to the patient during the MRI scan, require high levels of vigilance.

The use of checklists and teamwork training can maximize both patient and provider safety in the intraoperative MRI environment.