What is a significant risk of scanning with improper dB/dt levels in MRI?

Scanning with improper dB/dt levels in MRI can lead to patient discomfort or injury due to the potential for nerve stimulation and heating effects. dB/dt refers to the rate of change of the magnetic field, and excessive levels can create strong gradients that may induce electrical currents in tissues. This can result in sensations such as tingling or muscle contractions, which can be uncomfortable or even harmful to the patient.

Maintaining appropriate dB/dt levels is critical to ensure that the magnetic field changes do not exceed safe thresholds that could adversely affect the patient’s well-being. Regulatory standards are established to mitigate these risks, ensuring that the scanning process is not only effective for imaging but also safe for individuals undergoing the procedure.

Although increased imaging times, equipment malfunction, and data loss are potential issues in MRI operations, they are not the most direct consequences of improper dB/dt levels. The primary concern centers around patient safety and discomfort, making it the most significant risk.