SAR Reduction Checklist

Practical To-Do List for MRI Technologists

• Lower flip angle when possible
• Use parallel imaging (GRAPPA/SENSE)
• Increase TR slightly if feasible
• Increase Concatenations
• Use lower SAR sequences (e.g., GRE instead of TSE)
• Reduce number of slices or coverage
• Check patient positioning (isocenter for efficiency)
• Decrease Echo train length (ETL)
• Use fast imaging techniques (compressed sensing, SMS)
• Reduce number of averages (NEX)
• Use partial Fourier acquisition
• Optimize bandwidth (while balancing SNR)
• Review protocol presets for SAR efficiency (Low SAR RF Pulse Type)

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Disclaimer: The strategies listed here are provided for educational purposes only. Any adjustments to MRI protocols should be performed by qualified personnel, in accordance with institutional policies, vendor recommendations, and applicable safety regulations. Implementation is at the discretion and professional judgment of the MRI technologist or radiologist, and is undertaken at their own risk.

Want the full explanation? Read 9 Ways to Reduce SAR in MRI