Oxygen detection in MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced and crucial medical technologies for diagnostics. However, its use requires strict adherence to safety protocols, as the extremely powerful magnetic field and the presence of ferromagnetic materials can pose a risk to patients and healthcare workers. One of the key safety aspects of MRI environments is the detection of oxygen, which is essential to ensure optimal conditions and prevent dangerous situations.
Oxygen detection: what are the risks?
Within rooms built to house MRI equipment, there are several gas-related hazards that can occur, let’s take a look together:
- Hypoxia risk in closed areas: MRI rooms are often sealed environments to avoid acoustic and magnetic contamination. In such conditions, a leakage of cryogenic gases (used to cool the magnets) could displace the oxygen present, causing a hypoxia risk for those present. Early detection of a drop in oxygen concentration is therefore crucial to avoid potentially fatal situations.
- Prevention of fire hazards: Oxygen, if present in high concentrations, can increase the likelihood and severity of fires. This is particularly relevant in MRI rooms where high-powered electrical equipment is used.
Oxygen detection in MRI: what technology is used
Installed inside MRI rooms, oxygen gas detectors utilise sensors with an electrochemical cell, measuring the current generated by a chemical reaction between oxygen and an electrolyte inside the sensor. Advantages include:
- High accuracy and sensitivity.
- Compact size, ideal for confined environments.
Oxygen detection in MRI: why it is important
Oxygen detection in MRI rooms is essential to ensure the safety of patients and operators, as well as preserving the integrity of the clinical environment. MRI rooms, being closed and highly controlled spaces, can be subject to variations in oxygen concentration due to leaks of cryogenic gases, used for cooling magnets. Some of the most important aspects are:
- Staff and patient safety: Oxygen detection ensures that levels remain adequate, preventing hypoxia or exposure to hazardous conditions, such as a decrease in oxygen due to cryogenic gas leakage.
- Fire and explosion prevention: Oxygen monitoring helps keep concentrations under control, avoiding hyperoxic environments that could amplify the risks associated with sparks or electrical equipment. dangerous on a global scale.
- Safe and uninterrupted MRI operation: Ensuring optimal environmental conditions is crucial to avoid technical failures or interruptions due to emergencies, thus protecting patients, staff and expensive medical equipment.
Our products for oxygen detection in MRI
For gas detection inside MRI rooms, the SMART 3 and SMART S series of gas detectors are ideal:
SMART 3 NC
Suitable for detecting flammable, toxic, CO2 and oxygen gases in unclassified areas. Meets F-gas regulation
SMART 3 R
The SMART3-R detector enables the detection of explosive, toxic and refrigerant gases in unclassified areas, ideal for machine rooms and light industry. Meets F-gas regulation
PL4+
The PL4+ gas detection panel represents the best technology for the detection of flammable, toxic and oxygen gases in small systems.
