Radio frequency electromagnetic exposure: Tutorial review on experimental dosimetry

Abstract

Radio frequency (RF) dosimetry is the quantification of the magnitude and distribution of absorbed electromagnetic energy within biological objects that are exposed to RF fields. At RF, the dosimetric quantity, which is called the specific absorption rate (SAR), is defined as the rate at which energy is absorbed per unit mass. The SAR is determined not only by the incident electromagnetic waves but also by the electrical and geometric characteristics of the irradiated subject and nearby objects. It is related to the internal electric field strength (E) as well as to the electric conductivity and the density of tissues; therefore, it is a suitable dosimetric parameter, even when a mechanism is determined to be “athermal.” SAR distributions are usually determined from measurements in human models, in animal tissues, or from calculations. This tutorial describes experimental techniques that are used commonly to determine SAR distributions along with the SAR limitations and unresolved problems. The methods discussed to obtain point, planar, or whole‐body averaged SARs include the use of small E‐field probes or measurement of initial rate of temperature rise in an irradiated object. © 1996 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.

Magnetic resonance imaging in patients with a pacemaker system designed for the magnetic resonance environment

“…[11][12][13][14] Furthermore, heating depends on the specific lead design and lead length. Variations among different lead models can result in different risks of lead tip heating.…”

Experimental Requirements for in vitro Studies Aimed to Evaluate the Biological Effects of Radiofrequency Radiation

“…However, general guidelines and minimal requirements have been defined and published in the literature [25][26][27][28] suggesting specific procedures and methods to be followed in the realization of RF in vitro exposure setups in order to pursue reliability and reproducibility of the results.…”

Thirty‐five years in bioelectromagnetics research

“…I continued to co-chair the subcommittee with Dr. John D'Andrea and the work culminated in the publication of the IEEE/ICES C95. [Chou et al, 1996].…”