Anesthesia in the MRI suite and for CT scan

Complex imaging technology offers exceptional diagnostic and therapeutic procedural capabilities. Both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) are non-operating room locations that can represent significant challenges for the delivery of safe patient care. Over the past decade, requests for anesthesiology services in these remote imaging environments have dramatically increased. This chapter examines many of the complexities and hazards that are relatively unique to MRI and CT, such as the ferromagnetic missile effect, thermal injury, difficulties with patient monitoring in a strong electromagnetic environment, ionizing radiation, and magnetic and radio-opaque contrast agents. Options and rationales for sedation and anesthesia care in these remote locations are presented, along with methods to address the particular hazards and challenges found in each of these imaging suites. Patient safety and occupational safety are thoroughly addressed. Anesthesiologists should become familiar with these concepts, as the clinical demand for our safe and efficient services in these unique environments continues to grow.