Three Reasons Why Your MRI System May Not Be Running

As an MRI technician, your job is to provide physicians who are ordering these diagnostic tests with the clearest images possible; however, like all equipment, MRI systems can experience technical problems.

If you have a patient ready to have an MRI done and you've ensured that everything is properly set up, but the system just won't start up, or it isn't recording images, don't get all worked up thinking your job is on the line. Instead of getting all worked up and thinking that your job is on the line, take a deep breath and relax, because there's a good chance that problems is being caused by one of the following issues.

Power Problems

The reason why your MRI machine won't start up could be something as simple as a problem with the power. Take a look at your breaker to see if the one that powers your breaker needs to be reset. If that doesn't fix the problem, it could be that there is a problem with the power in your area, which means your machine won't be back up and running until your local power resolves the issue.

The Helium is Low

Helium is an important component in an MRI system, as it is used to cool down the magnets that are used within the system. If the helium levels are low, your machine won't work properly. If you are receiving alerts that indicate your helium levels are low, have the helium refilled as soon as possible. To avoid this problem in the future, stay on top of the helium levels and schedule a refill when the percentage is dipping into the 60s.

Issues with the Heat Exchanger Temperatures

Water is also an important component in an MRI system, as it helps to maintain the temperature of the heat exchanger. When the water is too warm, the MRI will cease to scan until the water temperature is lowered. If this is the issue, contact your MRI servicing provider so that they can address the problem, thus restoring the system so that it will resume taking images.

These are common issues that are experienced with MRI systems, and they aren't the end of the world; however, they can certainly put a wrench in your day, causing backups and preventing patients and doctors from getting the images that they need. By scheduling regular checkups for your MRI system, you can avoid these problems in the future and keep things running smoothly. For more advice on MRI maintenance, contact other professionals. 


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