Acoustic noise measurements during neonatal magnetic resonance scans

The magnetic resonance (MR) scan is a standard means to image the human body that produces significant sound pressure levels. Steps have been taken to explore and mitigate this threat for the adult patient, but now, it is becoming standard practice to use MR scanners on neonates, who are believed to be more sensitive than adults to loud sounds. We present (1) a survey of the neonatal MR practices of hospitals in the DC area, (2) details of the sound levels produced during neonatal scan protocols, and (3) an appraisal of the threat level to the neonatal patient based on our findings and the current literature surrounding neonatal hearing.