Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to see certain structures in the body, such as ligaments, tendons, nerve roots and soft tissues of the brain. Although MRI scans are generally considered safe and the actual scan is painless, there are some dangers that can present themselves if the proper precautions are not followed.
Metallic Objects
The most obvious danger regarding an MRI scan is bringing any metallic objects into the MRI room. Ferrous objects (objects that contain iron) are highly magnetic, and since the MRI magnet is extremely powerful and always on, it is imperative that no ferrous objects enter the room. The strong attraction of the metallic object to the center of the magnet can cause injury to the person as the object can be projected at a very high rate of speed. Due to fact that it is hard to distinguish which metals are ferrous, it is best to leave all metallic objects outside of the MRI room. Examples of metallic objects that should not enter the MRI room include, but are not limited to: bobby or hair pins, jewelry, keys, metallic belts, wheelchairs and oxygen tanks. Not only are there metallic objects that a person can intentionally bring into the MRI room, there are also metallic objects that a person can unintentionally bring into the MRI room. These include metallic fragments in the eyes, aneurysm clips, shrapnel or bullets in the body. Therefore, it is extremely important that any person having an MRI inform the technologist of any known metal in the body.
Electronic Devices
The pacemaker is the electronic device that is most cautioned against in MRI. A pacemaker works by sending electrical impulses to the heart if it detects an abnormal rhythm. The strength of the MRI magnet can disrupt the electrical impulses emitted from the pacemaker and cause it to malfunction, or the pacemaker lead wire can burn the surrounding tissues of the heart; both of those occurrences can be fatal. Other electronic devices not allowed in the MRI room are neurostimulators and insulin pumps, due to the magnetic interference with the electrical components.
Medication Patches
Although using a nicotine patch to quit smoking is a good idea, it is not a good idea to have an MRI scan while wearing it. According to Dr. Sandra Kweder at the FDA, these medication patches contain small amounts of aluminum that could burn the patient when exposed to the MRI magnet. Therefore, any person who wears a nicotine or medication patch should inform the technologist that he is wearing one before entering the MRI room.
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