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EC Directive could make MRIs illegal
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24/09/2007
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Implementation of the Physical Agents (Electromagnetic Fields) Directive could effectively halt the use of magnetic resonance imaging, says Professor Dag Rune Olsen, who works in experimental radiation therapy at the Norwegian Radiation Hospital and who is chairman of the physics committee of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology.
Addressing a press conference at the European Cancer Conference in Barcelona, Prof Olsen said eight million MRI patient examinations per year are carried out in Europe. “But these are likely to have to stop, since the Directive sets limits to occupational radiation exposure which will mean that anyone working or moving near MRI equipment will breach them, thus making it possible for them to sue their employers. Even those maintaining or servicing the equipment may be affected.”
A British study into operator exposure to electromagnetic fields from MRI, published by the Heath and Safety Executive in June 2007 found that anyone standing within 1m of an active MRI scanner would breach the exposure limits laid down in the Directive.
Professor Olsen claimed Slovakia has already implemented the Directive, on the assumption that the limits which it sets would have no effect. “This would appear to mean that it is now illegal to carry out MRI scanning in the country.”
The Directive is said to pose particular problems for healthcare staff who care for children, the elderly or those who have been anaesthetised, who need help and comfort during scans. It will also stop the use of MRI for interventional and surgical procedures and will curtail cutting edge research, he contended.
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Author
Graham Pitcher
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