QC Principles for MRI

This section explains the foundational principles of quality control in magnetic resonance imaging and why consistent QC is essential for safe and reliable diagnostic imaging. MRI QC focuses on image uniformity, geometric accuracy, signal to noise ratio, artifact monitoring, and system stability. Uniformity testing ensures that the magnet and coils produce even signal across the field of view and helps detect coil failures or gradient drift. Geometric distortion checks verify that distances and shapes are represented accurately which is critical for neuro, spine, and musculoskeletal imaging. Signal to noise ratio measurements track system performance over time and help identify early signs of hardware degradation. Artifact monitoring identifies issues such as ghosting, zipper artifacts, gradient instability, and radiofrequency interference. These principles align with accreditation methods used by national bodies and recommendations from medical physics groups and help maintain diagnostic quality and patient safety.

Routine MRI QC Tests

This section describes daily, weekly, and monthly QC tests performed in MRI departments. Daily QC includes visual inspection of the scanner room, coil integrity checks, and quick phantom scans to verify basic image quality. Weekly QC includes phantom based signal to noise ratio measurements, geometric distortion scans, transmitter and receiver gain checks, and slice position accuracy tests. Monthly QC includes detailed phantom imaging to evaluate slice thickness accuracy, spatial resolution, low contrast detectability, and gradient linearity. Action thresholds are established to determine when results fall outside acceptable ranges. QC logs must include date, time, operator initials, phantom type, and measured values. These logs support trend analysis, early detection of equipment issues, and accreditation readiness.

QC Documentation and Escalation

This section explains how to document QC results and escalate issues when results fall outside tolerance. QC results may be recorded in a logbook or electronic tracking system. Out of tolerance results must be escalated promptly to a medical physicist or service engineer. Documentation should include the nature of the issue, steps taken to verify the result, and any corrective actions. Sample templates help staff record findings consistently. Follow up documentation ensures that repairs or adjustments are completed and verified. Maintaining complete QC records supports accreditation, regulatory compliance, and safe patient care.