Evaluation of gamma irradiation effects in clinical gel compound with copper sulfate analyzed in MR images

Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) body simulators are useful for training new professionals and also for controlling the proper functioning of the equipment. This work is an evaluation of colorless clinical gel compound with copper sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO₄.5H₂O), in different proportions, for use as a body simulator in MR examinations. Samples were irradiated with gamma doses of 10, 50 and 100 kGy. MR images were obtained in a GE equipment, 1.5 Tesla, of the Hospital das Clínicas of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (HC-UFMG) and analyzed with ImageJ® software, demonstrating differences in the relaxation times promoted by the irradiation process. Samples of pure gel and low concentrations of copper sulfate presented good contrast in the MRI images, related to the irradiation process. The same occurs at higher concentrations of unirradiated CuSO₄.5H₂O. (author)