Experimental setup to compare measurements and numerical simulations in magnetic resonance imaging RF dosimetry

Many of the parameters associated with the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coils are estimated by means of numerical simulations. Taking into account the unavoidable numerical approximations and imperfections of the models, an experimental validation of the theoretical results becomes essential. This paper describes two measuring setups which allow the comparison between measurements of electromagnetic fields and the same quantities computed numerically. The experimental activity highlighted some critical aspects of the numerical results that could bring to a wrong estimation of the parameters associated with the MRI coils. Results show the importance and feasibility of a dosimetry experimental setup suitable for MRI coils characterization.