Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview: This study explores the risks associated with exposing infants to gradient magnetic fields in MRI scanners, specifically focusing on small-sized gradient coils in a 1.5 T baby MRI scanner.

Findings:

• The study noted that electric fields induced in infants' bodies during MRI scans can exceed safety limits outlined in ICNIRP 2010 guidelines.
• Magnetic flux density and induced electric fields were analyzed using the scalar potential finite differences method.
• Different coil waveforms (sinusoidal and trapezoidal) and infant positions (head, chest, body center) were tested.
• Results showed that the induced electric fields were consistently over the safety limits for all tested positions and coils, with the y-coil inducing the largest fields.

Conclusion: The research confirms significant potential risks from gradient fields to infants during MRI scans, suggesting the need for revised safety guidelines and further research into realistic field-infant tissue interactions.