- Recent advances in magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR angiography technology have greatly improved the utility of this important noninvasive diagnostic modality for detecting lesions, staging disease progression, and guiding biopsies and surgical procedures in the settings of cardiovascular imaging, neuroradiology, and imaging of the body. These improvements include higher field strength magnets, dedicated coils, innovative pulse sequences, high-relaxivity contrast agents, and improved protocols. In order to take advantage of these advances, radiologists, radiologic technologists (RTs), and radiology nurses require education that enhances their understanding of these improved MR technologies
- Necessary education is not conveniently accessible on the subject of MR safety, including nephrogenic system fibrosis (NSF), acute adverse reactions to contrast media, and gadolinium retention, and until recently was not part of the core curriculum in the training of radiologists, RTs, and radiology nurses. Much of the information that does exist does not provide readily available implementation skills to avoid unnecessary adverse outcomes
At the completion of this activity, the participant will be able to:
- Describe 1.5T and 3T MR protocols that provide optimal visualization of difficult-to-identify abnormalities and lesions
- Review where and when gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) including high-relaxivity agents are most appropriate in terms of visualization of lesions and/or reducing the incidence of contrastrelated adverse events
- Discuss possible acute and chronic adverse reactions to GBCAs including anaphylactoid reactions, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), and gadolinium retention
This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs radiologic technologists involved in the care of patients undergoing MRI.
This program has been applied for 2.25 hours of Category A CE credit as designated by the International Society for MR Radiographers & Technologists (ISMRT) RCEEM. Additionally, this activity may be available in multiple formats or from different sponsors. ARRT regulations state that an individual may not repeat an activity for credit if it was reported in the same or any subsequent biennium.
Release Date: TBD | Expires TBD
Faculty and Planner Disclosures:
As an accredited provider of continuing medical education, it is the policy of Northwest Imaging Forums, Inc. (NWIF) to ensure balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor in all of its activities. In accordance with this policy, faculty and planners must disclose all relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies. Any relevant financial relationships have been mitigated by NWIF to ensure the integrity of the CME activity. The planner has nothing to disclose.
