Evaluation of a power injection system in the 7‐Tesla MRI environment

Abstract

The injection of contrast media enables the visualization of various pathologies through X-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or other medical imaging modalities. Safety and functionality of power injector systems must be evaluated at high magnetic fields (7-Tesla). The purpose of this study was to evaluate MRI issues for a power injection system (OptiStar Elite MR Contrast Delivery System, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Hazelwood, MO) at 7-Tesla including magnetic field interaction and 31 injector performance tests. Additionally, effects of operation of the power injection system on MR images were evaluated through observation of image artifacts and signal to noise analysis. The components of the power injection system (powerhead, syringes) exhibited no translational attraction when close to 7-Tesla MR system. Translational attraction was detected for the power supply, power control, and cables, therefore there is a requirement to maintain these components fixed outside of the 0.1000 Tesla line. 7-Tesla MR scanning did not impact power injection performance. The power injection system produced no discernible image artifacts or degradation when the power controls and powerhead were positioned in the worst-case position. The power injection system tested for MRI issues passed evaluation for safety and operation at 7-Tesla and is labeled MR Conditional for use at 7-T.

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging contrast media injectors: technical feature review – what is really needed?

“…Especially for use in the MRI suite, electronic and metallic components are a potential safety and operational hazard and for ultimate patient safety, the device should be lightweight (<10 kg weight inside the MRI room) and entirely manufactured from nonferromagnetic materials with few to no electronic components to avoid accidents related to magnetic attraction forces ( Figure 6 ) and to ensure that the MRI scanner operates properly. 23 , 29…”

“…21 , 22 All other units still do have some ferromagnetic components built in and while they state to be compatible to 3 T, translational attraction forces (mainly the power supply) require that these devices stay outside the 0.1 T (=1,000 Gauss) line. 23 …”