Abstract

Abstract Overview

In this numerical study, the effects of exposure of infants to gradient magnetic fields in a baby MRI scanner are investigated. These fields are known to induce electric fields within the body, presenting potential safety risks such as peripheral nerve stimulation.

Details on Methods and Findings

• The study focuses on the in situ electric fields induced in an 8-week-old infant model by gradient coils in a 1.5 T MRI scanner.
• Uses scalar potential finite differences method for calculations.
• Different coil types (small x, y, z) and waveforms (sinusoidal, trapezoidal) are tested across several scan positions (head, chest, center).
• The findings underscore that induced electric fields in most tissues exceed the basic restrictions of the ICNIRP 2010 guidelines.
• Notable mention is that the y-coil induced larger electric fields compared to x- and z- coils, indicating potential variability in risk based on coil configuration.

Conclusion

The study highlights significant health risks associated with the current configurations used in pediatric MRI scanning, pointing towards a need for revised safety guidelines and technologies to mitigate these risks effectively.