MRI-Compatible Patient Monitoring Equipment
Only MRI-compatible (MR Safe or MR Conditional) monitoring equipment specifically designed for the MRI environment should be used, including pulse oximeters, capnographs, ECG monitors, and infusion pumps that can function continuously during scanning. 1
Essential MRI-Compatible Monitors
Pulse Oximetry
- MRI-compatible pulse oximeters capable of continuous function during scanning must be used for any sedated or restrained pediatric patient undergoing MRI 1
- The oximeter probe should be placed as far from the magnetic coil as possible to minimize thermal injury risk 1
- All wires must be positioned carefully without coiling to prevent radiofrequency heating 1
Capnography
- MRI-compatible capnographs are required for continuous monitoring throughout the MRI scanning procedure for patients receiving moderate or deep sedation 1
- These devices must maintain function during active scanning sequences 1
ECG Monitoring
- Special MRI-compatible ECG pads are essential to allow safe cardiac monitoring during MRI 1
- Standard ECG monitoring has been associated with thermal injury, making MRI-specific equipment mandatory 1
- ECG wires must not be coiled to avoid creating conductive loops that can cause burns 1, 2
Infusion Pumps
- Either an MRI-compatible infusion pump is required, or the pump must be situated outside the MRI room with long infusion tubing to maintain accuracy 1
- Standard infusion pumps cannot be brought into the MRI environment due to ferromagnetic components and electronic interference 1
Critical Safety Considerations
Wire Management
- Thermal injuries can result if wires are coiled or improperly positioned 1
- All monitoring cables (oximeter, ECG) must be carefully arranged to avoid creating loops that concentrate radiofrequency energy 1, 2
Equipment Classification
- All monitoring equipment must be formally classified as either MR Safe or MR Conditional 2
- MR Safe devices contain no material that would present a hazard at any field strength 2
- MR Conditional devices are safe only under specified conditions detailed by the manufacturer 2
Additional MRI-Compatible Equipment
- All emergency equipment must be MRI-compatible, including laryngoscope blades and handles, oxygen tanks, and ancillary resuscitation equipment 1, 2
- Standard equipment becomes dangerous projectiles in the magnetic field 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Ferromagnetic Components
- Never bring standard monitoring equipment into the MRI suite, as ferromagnetic components become dangerous projectiles 2
- All individuals, including parents and staff, must be screened for ferromagnetic materials before entry 1
Heating Risks
- Heating effects may occur even without visible displacement, particularly with conductive loops in monitoring cables 2
- Radiofrequency fields interact with conductive materials at the resonant frequency of the scanner, causing power dissipation and temperature increase 3