Practical Safety Considerations for Integration of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Radiation Therapy

Abstract

Interest in integrating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in radiation therapy (RT) practice has increased dramatically in recent years owing to its unique advantages such as excellent soft tissue contrast and capability of measuring biological properties. Continuous real-time imaging for intrafractional motion tracking without ionizing radiation serves as a particularly attractive feature for applications in RT. Despite its many advantages, the integration of MRI in RT workflows is not straightforward, with many unmet needs. MR safety remains one of the key challenges and concerns in the clinical implementation of MR simulators and MR-guided radiation therapy systems in radiation oncology. Most RT staff are not accustomed to working in an environment with a strong magnetic field. There are specific requirements in RT that are different from diagnostic applications. A large variety of implants and devices used in routine RT practice do not have clear MR safety labels. RT-specific imaging pulse sequences focusing on fast acquisition, high spatial integrity, and continuous, real-time acquisition require additional MR safety testing and evaluation. This article provides an overview of MR safety tailored toward RT staff, followed by discussions on specific requirements and challenges associated with MR safety in the RT environment. Strategies and techniques for developing an MR safety program specific to RT are presented and discussed.