May 13, 2008—Rosslyn, VA: The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has published MS 1-2008 Determination of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in Diagnostic Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It was produced by the Magnetic Resonance Section of Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance, a division of NEMA.
MS 1 is part of a series of test standards developed by the medical diagnostic imaging industry for the measurement of performance parameters governing image quality of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems. First developed in 1988 to define a standard procedure for measuring a useful index of image quality performance for MRIs, MS 1 describes four methods to measure image SNR. It is intended for use by MRI manufacturers, manufacturers of accessory equipment (including radiofrequency coils), and by MRI end-users.
MRI standards pertaining to SNR and uniformity measurements have been restructured to consider the coil geometry. In addition, new measurement methods have been added to this standard. The parameters serve as a guide to those factors that can influence the measurement. These standards also serve as reference procedures for acceptance testing and periodic quality assurance.
An electronic copy of NEMA MS 1-2008 may be downloaded at no charge, or a hard copy may be purchased for $45, by visiting NEMA’s website, or by contacting IHS at 800-854-7179 (U.S.), 303-397-7956 (international), 303-397-2740 (fax), or on the Web.