3 Modes of Scanner Operation for MRI

As an MRI Technologist, are you familiar with the 3 modes of scanner operation? ❓⚠️

1) Normal operating mode: Most MRI scans are done under this mode. ✅

2) First-level controlled operating mode: Physiologic stress can be caused under this mode. ‼️❌

3) Second-level controlled operating mode: Will present significant risks to patients and usually ONLY performed in “RESEARCH” studies 🧠🫁.

It is important to know when the SAR limit message pop up, how to proceed. 

💡Do you remember what the flip angle does? It is an important MRI parameter that determines the angle at which the magnetic field is applied to the hydrogen atoms in the body. It can be adjusted to control the amount of energy transferred to the hydrogen atoms during the RF pulse, which also can affect the strength of the MRI signal.

📢 As an MRI Technologist, it’s important to know how to open the protocol once you are unable to decrease the flip angle. Resulting to first level is not safe because patients may not disclose all of their surgical history. There may be an implant that is not safe that they forget to list on their screening form. It’s always good to double check and have the patients reveal and remember all of their surgical history, not just the ones pertaining to the area they are getting scanned. 

♻️We must be willing to train our future technologists the correct way, which is our students and be able to share the knowledge to prevent accidents and burns to patients and staff members 🔔!!

📞Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, or even contact the Radiologist or your MRSO if you have questions!

Post written by: Myrian Barbin