Izvorni znanstveni članak
https://doi.org/10.55378/rv.50.1.1
SAR in Magnetic Resonance Imaging – A Study on the Education, Knowledge, and Practice of Radiologic Technologists in the Republic of Croatia
Matija Hranić
; Croatia Poliklinika PJ Osijek, Croatia
*
Branko Kovalisko
; “Dr. Juraj Njavro” National Memorial Hospital, Vukovar, Croatia
Frane Mihanović
; University of Split, Faculty of Health Sciences, Split, Croatia
* Dopisni autor.
Sažetak
Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as a modern diagnostic method, presents specific safety challenges due to patients’ exposure to strong electromagnetic fields. From this perspective, the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) is a key safety parameter. Managing SAR in clinical practice is crucial for preventing excessive tissue heating and ensuring patient safety, prevalence of metallic implants, tattoos, and cosmetics containing metallic pigments, as well as the diverse age profile of patients, which necessitates special consideration for thermoregulation in paediatric and geriatric populations. Radiologic technologists play a central role in this process. Still, it remains unclear to what extent they possess formal education and knowledge about SAR, and how these aspects are applied in practice.
Aim: To analyse the current state of education, theoretical knowledge, and clinical practice of radiologic technologists in the Republic of Croatia in the context of SAR management and optimisation during MRI examinations.
Methods: A survey was conducted among radiologic technologists with MRI work experience in the Republic of Croatia. The questionnaire included questions regarding their formal training in MRI safety, understanding of the SAR concept, and implementation of safety protocols in practice.
Results: Neither level of education nor work experience significantly correlated with knowledge scores. No statistically significant difference was found in the number of correct answers between master’s degree holders and bachelor’s degree holders (p = 0.382), nor with total work experience (p = 0.618) or MRI-specific experience (p = 0.409). In contrast, one-way ANOVA revealed statistically significant regional differences in knowledge levels (p = 0.049). A pronounced discrepancy between theoretical knowledge and its practical application was identified. This finding is further supported by the fact that 96.2% of participants expressed a need for additional education.
Conclusion: The findings indicate the necessity of establishing systematic education for radiologic technologists on MRI safety, with a particular focus on SAR management. It is also recommended to implement unified, clearly defined safety protocols and to appoint responsible personnel for MR safety within healthcare institutions.
Ključne riječi
education; magnetic; resonance imaging; radiologic technologists; safety protocols; SAR
Hrčak ID:
347480
URI
Datum izdavanja:
5.5.2026.
Posjeta: 0 *