Coronavirus disease 2019: MRI examination procedures and infection prevention and protection

BACKGROUND: Though chest computed tomography (CT) and digital radiography (DR) is important in the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19, for patients with COVID-19 who may need magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to other complications, we proposed the MRI procedures for patients and medical staff to reduce the risk of infection between them. METHODS: Combining two cases in our hospital and other literature, a solution about the procedure and necessary preventive and protective measures for MRI examination of COVID-19 patients is proposed for peer reference with the help of experts from our hospital infection-control department. The solution that meets the hospital infection-control regulations covers five aspects including the layout requirements for the MRI room in the radiology department, preparation before admission, preparation of medical staff, preparation of patients, and terminal disinfection after MRI examination. Radiology personnel should strictly abide by the regulations on infection prevention and control. MRI technicians who have been in close contact with COVID-19 patients should receive strict medical observation for two weeks. Each step should be performed carefully to minimize the risk of hospital infection. RESULTS: A solution that includes five aspects was formulated to prevent the potential contamination during the MRI scan for COVID-19 patients. These five aspects are layout requirements in the MRI room, preparation before admission, preparation of medical staff, preparation of patients, and terminal disinfection after an examination. MRI technicians who have been in close contact with COVID-19 patients should receive strict medical observation for two weeks. CONCLUSIONS: To prevent and control the potential hospital infection during the MRI examination for COVID-19 patients, a solution including five aspects was initially proposed.