UNC Researchers Develop Technique to Reduce fMRI Acoustic Noise

A new fMRI acquisition method developed at the University of North Carolina reduces peak scan noise from levels exceeding 120 decibels. Researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine have developed a new functional brain imaging technique designed to substantially quiet the acoustic noise produced during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans — noise that can reach peak levels of 120...

Continue reading at Hearing Review →

Audiologists advising MRI departments on hearing protection protocols should be aware this technique exists, but it is not yet standard clinical practice and adoption depends on radiology implementation.

MRI-related noise-induced hearing risk is an underappreciated occupational and patient safety issue, and a validated quieter acquisition technique could meaningfully reduce audiological harm in radiology settings.

1. 01Standard fMRI scans can exceed 120 dB peak sound pressure — above occupational safety thresholds.
2. 02UNC researchers developed a new fMRI acquisition sequence that substantially reduces peak acoustic noise.
3. 03The technique could lower hearing risk (noise-induced hearing damage) for both patients and imaging staff.
4. 04The development is relevant to audiology, occupational health, and neuroradiology communities.
5. 05Clinical adoption will require validation and integration into radiology workflows.

Publication type

research_article

Evidence level

2b

Population

fMRI imaging environment; implications for patients undergoing MRI and radiology staff

Intervention

Novel fMRI acquisition technique designed to reduce peak acoustic noise

Comparator

Standard fMRI acquisition (noise levels exceeding 120 dB)