Reducing Vertigo Associated With MRI Machines
Johns Hopkins University
Summary
Vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance are commonly reported by patients and technologists when near high-field strength magnets (\>4 Tesla, T) used for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (1-5) Prior research from the investigators has established that the mechanism is likely a Lorentz force occurring in the inner ear, as a result of interactions with normal electrical currents in the inner ear and the strong static magnetic field of the MRI machine. The investigators have recently developed preliminary data to suggest that slower rates of entry into the magnetic field can greatly attenuate the sensations of vertigo. The explanation for this is that the rates of vestibular adaptation exceed that of the stimulus, allowed a reduction or elimination of the symptoms of vertigo. The aim of this study is to recruit individuals who are already getting an MRI scan as part of other research studies to randomize the rate of entry into and exit from the static magnetic field (i.e., before and after imaging is performed). The usual rate of entry is 20 seconds. This will be increased to one, two or three minutes. The investigators will record subjective sensations of dizziness and vertigo associated with the entry into the MRI.
Description
Vertigo and nystagmus are commonly reported in 7 Tesla MRI machines, in upwards of 2/3 of individuals. Magnetic vestibular stimulation (MVS) of the inner ear explains these symptoms. In the normal state, the inner ear has constant electric current flowing from the dark cells to the hair cells of the utricular macula through the potassium enriched endolymph. This electric current drives the utricle's exquisitely sensitive response to linear accelerations. Near the utricular macula are the cupulae of the lateral and superior semicircular canals (SCCs), which are exquisitely sensitive to angular…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Participants who will be undergoing an MRI scan at a 7 Tesla MRI. Exclusion Criteria: * Exclusion criteria include pacemaker, defibrillator wires, metal implants, cochlear implants, or ferromagnetic surgical clips in the brain. * Pregnancy * Claustrophobia occurs in perhaps 5% of patients, and they will not proceed with the test. All subjects will fill out the routine pretesting MRI questionnaire.
Interventions
- BehavioralRate of Entry
The participant will enter and exit the MRI scan at a slower rate than the manufacturer entry and exit.
Location
- Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimore, Maryland