A Survey and Analysis of the Current Status of MRI Safety Management in Medical Institutions in Korea.

Abstract

Background: MRI safety management is essential for patient safety and for standardizing institutional practices. However, nationwide data on MRI safety readiness in Korean tertiary hospitals remain limited.

Purpose: To evaluate MRI safety management across all 47 Korean tertiary hospitals and identify major gaps in safety infrastructure, staffing, and education.

Study type: Cross-sectional census survey.

Population: MRI safety managers from all 47 Korean tertiary hospitals in 2025.

Assessment: A structured 50-item questionnaire was developed based on the American College of Radiology (ACR) MRI safety guidelines. A composite safety maturity index (0-100) was calculated as the unweighted arithmetic mean of four domain scores derived from 32 binary safety-practice items, with mandatory items weighted 2 and recommended items weighted 1 in accordance with the 2024 ACR Manual on MR Safety.

Statistical tests: Descriptive statistics were used to summarize institutional characteristics and safety compliance. Comparisons of staffing patterns by time period were evaluated using inferential tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The response rate was 100% (47/47). The mean number of MRI units per hospital was 5.32 ± 3.50, and 3.0 T systems were predominant. Compliance was universal for closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitoring and MR Conditional monitoring devices but was low for ferromagnetic detection systems (17.0%), Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer (MRSO) appointment (17.0%), and Level 1 safety education (23.4%). MRI-related safety incidents were reported by 44.7% of hospitals. Two-person staffing decreased significantly from 97.9% on weekday daytime hours to 55.3% on Saturdays, 44.7% at night, and 38.3% on holidays. The overall composite safety maturity score was 63.08 ± 15.04.

Data conclusion: Considerable variability remains in MRI safety management across Korean tertiary hospitals. These findings highlight the need for national MRI safety standards in the Republic of Korea.

Evidence level: 4.

Technical efficacy: Stage 4.