Abstract

Overview

The current state of medical and scientific knowledge on the effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields on workers in the field of clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is summarized in this comprehensive review.

Methodology

A systematic literature search was conducted to analyze health risks to medical personnel from magnetic fields in MRI. From 7273 sources identified, only 34 sources remained after full-text screening for inclusion in this review.

Findings

• Short-term sensory effects noted include vertigo, metallic taste, and phosphenes, alongside neurocognitive and neurobehavioral changes such as decreased speed and precision, reduced visual contrast sensitivity, and affected eye-hand coordination.
• Long-term impacts mainly pertain to sleep quality which could potentially increase accident risks.
• Specific studies concerning pregnant healthcare workers exposed to magnetic fields showed no significant adverse outcomes regarding pregnancy duration, premature births, miscarriages, or birth weight.

Conclusion

Despite these findings, there is a notable lack of epidemiological studies and a critical need for high-quality data, especially related to long-term exposure effects of electromagnetic fields from clinical MRI on healthcare personnel.