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Defines the systems to which this document applies, including MAGNETOM Aera and Skyra.
Emphasizes adherence to all valid operator manual safety information and notes contained herein.
Details the components of the Contour 24 coil, including the coil itself, Velcro pads, and adapter strap.
Provides essential guidelines for safe handling of the coil, including patient positioning and cable management.
Describes the general procedure for using the Contour 24 coil for patient examinations, using abdomen as an example.
Explains how to combine two Contour 24 coils using the Velcro adapter strap to form the Contour 48 configuration.
Outlines the steps for performing a measurement, including aligning the laser-light localizer and starting the scan.
Refers to general instructions provided in the Operator Manual Coils for cleaning the product.
States that the Contour 24 coil does not require regularly scheduled maintenance procedures.
The MAGNETOM Family Contour 24 Coil, designed for use with MAGNETOM Aera and MAGNETOM Skyra (excluding the TimTX TrueShape option) systems, is an essential component for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations across various body regions. This operator manual serves as an addendum to the individual hardware and software operator manuals, providing specific guidance for the Contour 24 Coil.
The Contour 24 Coil is a surface coil specifically engineered to enable high-quality MRI examinations of different body regions. Its primary function is to capture MR signals from the area of interest, providing detailed images for diagnostic purposes. The coil's design allows for flexible positioning on the patient, adapting to the specific anatomical region being examined, such as the abdomen. Depending on the clinical requirements and the patient's comfort, the coil can be utilized in either a head-first or feet-first orientation. A key feature of the Contour 24 Coil is its modularity; two Contour 24 coils can be combined using a Velcro adapter strap to create a larger configuration, known as the Contour 48. This larger setup expands the imaging capabilities, allowing for the examination of broader anatomical areas or for situations where extended coverage is beneficial. The coil is equipped with Velcro pads, which facilitate the secure attachment of the adapter strap when forming the Contour 48 configuration. A label on the coil itself serves as a reminder to consult the operator manual for proper usage and safety guidelines. The device is classified as Class II, indicating its safety and performance standards.
Proper and safe handling of the Contour 24 Coil is paramount for both patient comfort and image quality. When positioning the coil, it is crucial to ensure that the coil cable does not come into contact with the patient's head, preventing potential discomfort or interference. Given that the coil is not made of breathable material, the use of table sheets or covers is recommended between the coil surface and the patient to enhance comfort and maintain hygiene. The coil cable should be securely attached to the designated cable holders, which are typically found in the elongated holes of the patient table, to prevent accidental dislodgement or entanglement.
For a standard examination, such as an abdominal scan, the procedure involves several steps. First, the spine coil is positioned on the patient table. The patient is then placed in a supine position, with their head pointing towards the magnet. Appropriate positioning aids should be utilized to ensure patient stability and comfort throughout the procedure. The Contour 24 Coil is then placed on the patient's abdomen and connected to coil socket 1 on the MR system. The process for examining other body regions or using different patient positions follows a similar methodology, adapting the coil placement as needed.
When utilizing the Contour 48 configuration, which involves combining two Contour 24 coils, the process is slightly more involved. After positioning the patient as described above, the first Contour 24 coil is placed on the patient and connected to coil socket 1. The Velcro adapter strap is then attached to the Velcro pads located along the edge of the first Contour 24 coil. These pads are situated on the reverse side of the cable outlet. It is essential to ensure that the strap is securely attached to all three Velcro pads for stability. Subsequently, the second Contour 24 coil is positioned so that it overlaps the first coil, with its Velcro pads directly aligning over the Velcro adapter strap. To achieve a better balance of the coil combination on the patient, it is advisable to position the two coils with their respective cable outlets on opposite sides. The second coil is then connected to coil socket 2. This coil combination can also be used with the cable outlets pointing towards the head and feet, a positioning that may be particularly useful for larger patients. The position of the coil combination should be adjusted as necessary to suit the specific examination and patient anatomy. If required, standard positioning accessories, such as straps, can be employed to further secure the coil combination.
Once the coil(s) are correctly positioned, the measurement process can begin. The laser-light localizer is aligned with the center of the region of interest, and the measurement is initiated.
For quality measurement, a specific setup is required. The spine coil is positioned on the patient table, followed by placing phantom holder 26 on the table. A 5300-ml plastic bottle is then placed inside phantom holder 27. The Contour 24 coil is positioned between phantom holder 26 and the plastic bottle. The coil is then secured onto the bottle using straps. The entire assembly, comprising the coil and the plastic bottle, is positioned on phantom holder 26 such that the coil cable points towards the magnet. The coil is then rotated by 180 degrees, ensuring that the center marking (an embossed cross) points upward. Finally, the coil plug is connected to a suitable socket, the laser-light localizer is aligned with the coil's center marking, and the quality measurement is started.
The maintenance of the Contour 24 Coil primarily involves cleaning. Users are instructed to follow the general guidelines provided in the "Operator Manual Coils" for cleaning procedures. It is crucial to adhere to these instructions to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the coil. When cleaning the MR system, including coils and accessories, only a damp cloth (moist wipe, not too wet) should be used. Improper cleaning can pose a risk of electric shock and damage to the equipment. Therefore, it is imperative to follow all cleaning instructions explicitly detailed in the relevant manuals, which specify how various components should be cleaned and disinfected. Beyond routine cleaning, the Contour 24 Coil does not require regularly scheduled maintenance, simplifying its upkeep.
General| Magnetic Field Strength | 1.5 T |
|---|---|
| Magnet Type | Superconducting |
| Gradient Strength | 45 mT/m |
| Slew Rate | 200 T/m/s |
| Patient Table Weight Capacity | 250 kg |
| Bore Diameter | 70 cm |
| Patient Bore Diameter | 70 cm |
| Dot Engine | Yes |
| Total Imaging Matrix | Yes |
| Patient Weight Limit | 250 kg |
| System Length | Approx. 2.5 m |
| Tim Technology | Yes |
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