Short-term effects experienced during examinations in an actively shielded 7 T MR

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging Physics

Background:

• High-field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, specifically 7 tesla (7T), offers advanced diagnostic capabilities.
• Understanding patient-reported short-term effects in actively shielded (AS) 7T MR scanners is crucial for optimizing the patient experience and compliance.
• Previous studies have focused on passively shielded (PS) 7T systems, necessitating a comparison with AS systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the occurrence and intensity of short-term effects in participants undergoing examinations in an actively shielded 7T MR scanner.
• To compare these findings with existing data from passively shielded 7T MR scanners.
• To identify potential healthcare and nursing strategies for improving patient compliance during 7T MR examinations.

Main Methods:

• A web-based questionnaire was administered to 124 study participants (154 examinations) immediately following their scan in an AS 7T MR scanner.
• The questionnaire assessed the frequency and severity of experienced short-term effects, including dizziness, movement inconsistencies, and peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS).
• Participant perceptions of noise levels, temperature, information provided, and staff interaction were also recorded.

Main Results:

• The most common short-term effects reported were dizziness (84%) and inconsistent movement (70%), particularly during magnet entry/exit.
• Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) was experienced in 67% of examinations, with a correlation between twitch intensity and predicted PNS values.
• The majority of participants found noise levels acceptable (74%) and temperature comfortable, with high satisfaction regarding information and staff contact (95%).

Conclusions:

• Short-term effects are frequently encountered during examinations in actively shielded 7T MR scanners.
• While patient information and staff interaction were highly rated, there is a need to refine nursing care strategies to further improve patient compliance.
• Willingness for future 7T MR examinations remains high (>90%), indicating patient acceptance despite reported effects.