HomeAnswersRadiologyradiofrequency procedures

Does one receive a higher RF exposure if they weigh more?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I was directed to you in the hopes you could answer a technical question for me regarding MRI soft tissue neck SAR limits and RF exposure. Does one receive a higher SAR limit and RF exposure if they weigh more? For example, if a patient weighs 225 lbs would his or her SAR limits and subsequent RF exposure be higher or lower than someone who is 250 pounds? Thank you in advance.
Answered by Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra is a Radiologist specializing in Radiodiagnostic techniques. She can do X-ray imaging interpretation and ultrasound diagnostics. She can do a CT (Computed Tomography) scan analysis, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) evaluation, and interventional radiology procedures. She can also do mammography screening and breast imaging. She performs Fluoroscopy-guided interventions and imaging for trauma and emergency care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The SAR (specific absorption rate) is directly dependant on the patient's weight and would definitely be more for a 250 lb person than a 225 lb.

The second issue is that radiation heat is more at the surface than the deeper layers of the tissue. So, to conclude, chances of burns are more in patients with more weight than lean patients. However, there are FDA guidelines to prevent such incidences.

In case you are suspecting burns, please inform the respective MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) unit regarding management and also to prevent such incidents in the future.

Take care.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 22, 2018
Reviewed At November 10, 2022

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra is a Radiologist specializing in Radiodiagnostic techniques. She can do X-ray imaging interpretation and ultrasound diagnostics. She can do a CT (Computed Tomography) scan analysis, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) evaluation, and interventional radiology procedures. She can also do mammography screening and breast imaging. She performs Fluoroscopy-guided interventions and imaging for trauma and emergency care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra
Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Radiology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra is a Radiologist specializing in Radiodiagnostic techniques. She can do X-ray imaging interpretation and ultrasound diagnostics. She can do a CT (Computed Tomography) scan analysis, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) evaluation, and interventional radiology procedures. She can also do mammography screening and breast imaging. She performs Fluoroscopy-guided interventions and imaging for trauma and emergency care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
Listen to related tracks in our music library

Related Questions

MRI spine showed intramedullary mass at T4. Is it a cyst or malignancy?

Factors influencing Sexually Transmitted Diseases and its Prevention Strategies

MRI shows 'intermediate signal intensity lesion in endometrial cavity.' What is it?

I noticed some boils on my face while shaving. What can they be?

Yoga Poses To Manage Diabetes

I observed small painless dots in the penis. What could they be?

Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

patient educationradiofrequency procedures

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Radiology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.