Jens Matthias Theysohn1,2, Andreas K. Bitz1, Oliver Kraff1,2, Stefan Maderwald1,2, Marcus Gerwig3, Oliver Kastrup3, Dagmar Timmann3, Franz Schmitt4, Harald H. Quick1,2, Elke Ruth Gizewski1,2, Michael Forsting1,2, Mark E. Ladd1,2, Susanne C. Ladd1,2
1Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; 2Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; 3Department of Neurology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; 4Siemens Healthcare, Erlangen, Germany
Ultra high-field MRI (7 Tesla and above) generates more temporary side-effects compared to 1.5T and 3T, e.g. dizziness. Postural stability was quantitatively measured before and after a 7 Tesla examination of the head. Twenty-five volunteers underwent a Rombergs test. Stability with eyes closed was significantly reduced directly after the MR examination, but was fully recovered 15 minutes after examination. Physiological effects by orthostatic regulation were excluded. Stability results for tests with eyes open show no significant difference. The results show that exposition to a 7 Tesla examination causes only a temporary dysfunction or over-compensation of the vestibular system.