Effect of noise exposure during 7 Tesla MRI.

Motivation: Ensuring the proper use of hearing protection during extensive scanning at a 7T system with high acoustic noise levels is crucial. Goal(s): We investigate if MRI examinations have acute and/or persisting effects on the hearing even if hearing protection is used. Approach: Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) were used to evaluate the effects of noise exposure after two MRI scanning sessions in a single day. OAE measurements were conducted prior to and after each scanning and with a one-week follow-up. Results: We found no significant differences in outer hair cell function between the baseline measurement and the first MRI and the follow-up OAE measurement. Impact: Research protocols at a 7T system often involve long scanning sessions using sequences with high acoustic noise levels. When hearing protection is adequately used, MRI scanning can be performed without effects on the participant`s hearing.