SAR and temperature changes in the leg due to an RF decoupling coil at frequencies between 64 and 213 MHz.

Specific absorption rate (SAR) due to a butterfly surface coil in a realistic model of the leg was calculated for frequencies 64 < or = v < or = 213 MHz. The resulting temperature distribution and temperature changes (deltaT) were found using the bioheat transfer equation. To compare results at different frequencies, the minimum B-field within the coil's footprint in the plane parallel to the coil but displaced 50 mm from it was kept constant. To achieve the same minimum B-field as that associated with operation at 64 MHz that was compliant with safety guidelines (peak SAR in 1 cm3 of tissue of 2.3 W/kg), it was predicted that SAR would exceed recommended levels when v > or = 149 MHz. The corresponding maximum deltaT at 64, 128, and 213 MHz were 0.3, 1.3, and 5.0 degrees C, respectively.