Potential Hazards of Magnetic Resonance Imagers to Emergency Medical Service Helicopter Operations

Abstract

In recent years there have been several incidents with helicopters where magnetic resonance imagers (MRIs) have interfered with the operation of magnetic sensors such as compasses and directional gyroscopes. The magnetic fields generated by the MRI magnet causes magnetic sensors to give aberrant readings. This report documents the characteristics of MRIs and how they operate. It discusses relevant federal regulations of MRI and all magnetic effects and hazards involved with operating helicopters in a strong static magnetic field for both personnel and equipment. Finally, the report makes recommendations for safe helicopter operations in and around MRIs.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1993
Accession Number
ADA278873

Entities

People

  • Robert B. Newman

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Air Platforms
  • Biomedical
  • Sensors

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Crystal Structure
  • Detectors
  • Electromagnetic Fields
  • Electromagnetic Radiation
  • Electromagnetic Shielding
  • Flight Crews
  • Health Services
  • Magnetic Detectors
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Magnetic Resonance
  • Medical Personnel
  • Permanent Magnetism
  • Radiologic Health
  • Resonant Frequency
  • United States
  • United States Government

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aviation Safety Risk Assessment.
  • Medical Imaging.
  • Superconducting Magnet Technology