Tohoku University Cognitive Neuroscience Application Center

This page is intended to share information within the Cognitive Neuroscience Application Center at Tohoku University and is not intended to be viewed by external parties. The Center cannot answer questions about the content from outside and is not responsible for its accuracy.

[fMRI Experimental General Support Skills Training Scheme] Experimental skills related to MRI and fMRI: MRI hazards and safety measures.

Return to Summary　

---

1. course requirements
1.1. online content
read this HP and the linked HP to understand the dangers of MRI and safety measures
1.2. practical training
Learn how to practice safety measures through MRI tours and laboratory exercises.

2. online contents
2.1. magnetic attraction
MRI machine generates a powerful magnetic field. Accidents can occur if metallic objects are brought into the machine, either inside or outside the body. Before the experiment, provide written warnings to subjects and obtain their signed consent. Additionally, verbally reiterate the warnings immediately before they enter the MRI room.

Bringing metal objects (magnetic materials) or electronic devices into the MRI room is extremely dangerous for both the subject and the equipment, so it is essential to take sufficient care to ensure that they are not brought in by mistake. If brought in, damage to the items (smartphones, watches, magnetic cards, etc.) is almost inevitable, and in the case of magnetic materials, there is also a risk of injury to the subject or damage to the MRI equipment.

【check list】

 

Metal detectors (left figure) do not have a high metal detection capability, so do not place excessive expectations on their ability to prevent accidental introduction of metal objects. Instead, recognize their usefulness in alerting subjects to the dangers of bringing magnetic objects into the facility and in determining whether clothing and other accessories are magnetic.

2.2. Effects of Gradient Magnetic Fields
The MRI machine generates noise when it produces a gradient magnetic field. Wear earplugs or headphones to reduce the noise.

2.3. Heat generated by radio waves
Because MRI uses radiofrequency waves, there have been reports of burns from metals in tattoos and makeup, and heat generated by human body loops such as crossing one's arms. There are also dangers such as clothing containing heat-generating materials. The Brain MRI Center provides a change of clothing. Learn from the following websites to ensure safe research operations.

• JMRTS Videos Learn MRI Medical Safety with Videos（Japanese）

Red frame is recommended video

 

2.4. Emergency call button
The subject is always given an emergency call button and asked to hold it lightly in either of his or her hands.

• When the button is handed to the subject, the subject is asked to confirm that the buzzer sounds by actually grasping the button.
• Instruct the subject to ring the buzzer at least three times in the event of physical illness or other abnormalities.
• When it rings, stop the imaging.

Attachments

Back to the list

• Previous article
• Back to the list
• Next article