What is required for cryogen to ensure it does not harm a patient?

For cryogen management in MRI systems, venting the cryogen outside is critical to prevent harm to patients and staff. When superconducting magnets are used, they are cooled by cryogens such as liquid helium, which can vaporize and create a gas that may displace oxygen in enclosed spaces. If this gas is allowed to accumulate indoors, it can lead to asphyxiation or other hazardous conditions due to the reduced availability of breathable air.

By venting the cryogen outside, the risk of such incidents is significantly minimized as it ensures that any excess gas is dispersed into the atmosphere where it can dissipate safely. This approach not only protects the patients within the MRI suite but also safeguards staff and visitors from potential exposure to harmful concentrations of cryogen gases.

While options related to filtration, warming, or venting underground may seem plausible, they do not appropriately address the risk management associated with cryogen handling in an MRI environment. Thus, ensuring that cryogens are properly vented outside is the most effective and essential protocol for safety.