Neuroimage: Reports (Jun 2023)

Introduction of ultra-high-field MR brain imaging in infants: vital parameters, temperature and comfort

  • I.M. van Ooijen,
  • K.V. Annink,
  • M.J.N.L. Benders,
  • J. Dudink,
  • T. Alderliesten,
  • F. Groenendaal,
  • M.L. Tataranno,
  • M.H. Lequin,
  • J.M. Hoogduin,
  • F. Visser,
  • A.J.E. Raaijmakers,
  • D.W.J. Klomp,
  • E.C. Wiegers,
  • J.P. Wijnen,
  • N.E. van der Aa

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 3, no. 2
p. 100175

Abstract

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Background: Brain MRI in infants at ultra-high-field scanners might improve diagnostic quality, but safety should be evaluated first. In our previous study, we reported simulated specific absorption rates and acoustic noise data at 7 Tesla. Methods: In this study, we included twenty infants between term-equivalent age and three months of age. The infants were scanned on a 7 Tesla MRI directly after their clinically indicated 3 Tesla brain MRI scan. Vital parameters, temperature, and comfort were monitored throughout the process. Brain temperature was estimated during the MRI scans using proton MR spectroscopy. Results: We found no significant differences in vital parameters, temperature, and comfort during and after 7 Tesla MRI scans, compared to 3 Tesla MRI scans. Conclusions: These data confirm our hypothesis that scanning infants at 7 Tesla MRI appears to be safe and we identified no additional risks from scanning at 3 Tesla MRI.

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