“If I have an implant, am I still able to have an MRI done?”
This is one of the most common questions patients ask before they undergo an MRI scan, and there’s a good reason for it.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) involves strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the body. Many implants are usually constructed with metal and are affected by the MRI magnetic field. Adverse effects can result in damage to the implant, the implant heating up, or movement of the implant.
Luckily, many implants are considered MR Conditional when scanned under specific conditions. Proper screening before the MRI appointment can help MR personnel follow safety protocols for patients to receive the scan.
Active vs. Passive Implant Types
Medical implants are any device or object located inside or attached to the patient that they were not born with. There are hundreds of different kinds of implants that are in use around the world, ranging from bone screws and plates to cardiac pacemakers.
There are MR Unsafe implants that can become damaged or cause harm during an MRI scan. However, other modern implants are constructed from materials that reduce MRI-related risks. After appropriate testing, these implants can receive an MR Conditional designation.
Typically, the patient or caregiver will receive an implant card stating if the implant is MR Conditional and under what conditions it can be safely scanned, if at all. The implant manufacturer can also be contacted to gather the information if needed.
Implants are categorized as either active or passive. Both types of implants should to be screened for before an MRI.
Active Implants
Active implants are implants that have their own power source or are inductively coupled. An inductively coupled implant can receive energy wirelessly, like how a phone can receive power from a wireless charger.
Types of active implants include but are not limited to:
- Pacemakers
- Neurostimulators
- Insulin or drug infusion pumps
- Cochlear implants
Many of these implants can be MR Conditional when precautions are taken. It’s possible for active implants to become inoperative or malfunction due to their systems becoming damaged by the magnetic field and RF waves, which can cause harm to the patient.
Depending on the implant model, some active implants can be set into an MRI mode before scanning. MRI conditions and requirements should always be verified with the manufacturer and implant documentation.
Passive Implants
Passive implants do not have a power source except for the body’s energy and gravity. They include but are not limited to:
- Bone plates and screws
- Prostheses
- Aneurysm clips
- Dental Implants
- Breast implants
- Reconstructive implants
These implants generally do not contain electronic components that can malfunction during an MRI scan. However, some implants may experience magnetic field interactions such as displacement force or torque, and certain implants may heat up due to RF energy generated during the scan. Before the MRI, it should be confirmed if a passive implant can go through an MRI or not.
Screening For an MRI With an Implant
Common practice when scheduling an MRI includes filling out an MRI screening form. These forms include questions on the type and number of implants that the patient may have. Information patients may be asked to provide includes:
- Implant manufacturer
- Implant model number
- Date of implantation
- Implant location in the body
This information allows MR personnel to be aware of anything that could prevent a scan from occurring ahead of time and know what conditions need to be met to prevent damage to the implant or harm to the patient. The manufacturer and model number information can be found on the implant information card.
The screening form is typically reviewed again on the day of the scan. Visitors and MR personnel also need to be screened for implants before entering the MR environment for the same reasons. This screening procedure can also help MR personnel know where implants are when scanning, as implants can sometimes create image artifacts that reduce image quality.
Some MRI facilities may say “no” to scanning a patient if they cannot meet the specific requirements for certain MR Conditional implants, so it’s important to check with other facilities whether they can perform the doctor-ordered scan. If needed, alternate scans such as CT scans and ultrasound can be done if the prescribing doctor says it is acceptable for diagnostic purposes.
Many patients with medical implants can safely undergo MRI examinations when the implant’s MRI conditions are properly identified and followed. It’s important to let MR personnel know of all implants to prevent unnecessary damage to implants and patient injury during a scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
MR personnel may need additional information from medical records, implant cards, or the implant manufacturer before determining whether the scan can proceed.
MRI screening is often repeated to help verify information and reduce the risk of missing important safety details before entering restricted MRI areas.
Some implants have waiting periods before an MRI can be performed, while others may be scanned immediately under specific conditions. MR personnel should verify the manufacturer’s MRI guidelines before scheduling the examination.
Explore MRI Safety Equipment
MRI screening helps identify implants, devices, and other items that may require special precautions before a scan. MRIequip carries MRI safety equipment designed to support safer MRI environments, including ferromagnetic detection systems, MRI safety signage, and MR Conditional patient care equipment.
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