Effects of Radiofrequencies in Magnetic Resonance Imaging - a short review

Abstract

Nowadays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging is widely accepted and is becoming an increasingly useful imaging technique. For its functioning, in magnetic resonance equipments there are three main sources of electromagnetic fields: static magnetic fields, time-varying gradient fields and radiofrequencies fields. All of these fields have effects both on patients and workers. The main effect of radiofrequencies fields is heat deposition on human body, which causes tissue heating. There are international guidelines that establish occupational limits for its exposure. A good knowledge of radiofrequencies implications and its safety aspects is vital for better practices in magnetic resonance imaging.