Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the impact of increased use of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) on the exposure of medical personnel to static magnetic fields (STmf), particularly because of the growing practice of examining COVID-19 convalescents with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

• Static exposure to STmf (SEmf) was measured while simulating CMR procedures conducted by radiographers.
• The time variability of electromagnetic exposure (TVEmf) was quantified based on SEmf samples.
• Comparisons were made against labour law limits, the distribution of vertigo when near MRI magnets, and typical exposure during head MRI scans.

Findings

The study identified different exposure profiles for radiology staff operating CMR, compared with those managing non-CMR MRIs. Exposure levels up to the 95th percentile remained below those associated with a high probability of vertigo.

Conclusion

Despite exposure levels being within existing safety guidelines under normal operating conditions, the increased use of CMR has heightened the vertigo-related hazards for MRI personnel. A reassessment of the electromagnetic safety standards is suggested to potentially revise these guidelines in light of increased CMR application.