The authors of this book have produced a valuable resource for radiologists, technologists, and others interested in safety of magnetic resonance (MR) examinations. This well-written book compiles and reviews safety literature on a wide range of topics related to MR imaging. The authors are knowledgeable on MR safety issues; several of their papers are among the literature reviewed. Three of the 1 2 chapters examine bioeffects data. Other chapters deal with pregnancy and MR, auditory effects, claustrophobia, patient monitoring, contrast agents, patient screening, implants, and cryogens and quenches. In chapter 1, static magnetic field bioeffects are considered. Literature concerning teratogenicity, homing, cell functions, thrombolysis, nerve function, cardiovascular effects, temperature, magnetophosphenes, and cell alignment are analyzed. Chapter 2 is concerned with the safety of gradient magnetic fields. Included in Chapter 2 is literature on stimulation of nerves and muscle (including the heart), magnetophosphenes, and auditory effects. The effects of radiofrequency fields, especially heating, on patient physiology (temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate) is explored in detail in Chapter 3. Many MR technicians will find Chapter 4 to be of particular interest. Chapter 4 examines issues associated with MR examinations of pregnant patients and with the occupational exposure of pregnant MR workers. Gradientinduced acoustic noise, noise abatement techniques, and even auditory perception of radiofrequency fields are discussed in Chapter 5. Practical problems (and potential remedies) concerning patients who experience claustrophobia and panic disorders during MR examinations are addressed in Chapter 6. Such information should be particularly useful to clinicians. In Chapter 7, MR safety aspects of patient monitoring and MR compatible equip-MRM 32804 (1994)