A safety approach of magnetic compatibility of metallic biomaterials in Magnetic Resonance Imaging

J.D. de Certaines, B.P. Chauvel, H. Bouk’hil, G. Cathelineau

Laboratoire de Résonance Magnétique en Biologie et Médecine and Laboratoire de Biomatériaux en Site Osseux, Université de Rennes 1, Faculté de Médecine, 2 place Pasteur, 35000-Rennes (France)

Manuscript received: March 17, 2000.

Accepted for publication: May 3, 2000.

Abstract

Interactions of metallic implants and monitoring devices with magnetic field must be an important safety consideration for both patients and staff in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Metallic materials can be a contra-indication for MRI when it leads to safety issue (biohazards) or image misinterpretation (artefacts). Tests and safety guidelines are proposed concerning the MRI compatibility of non-active metallic materials. The evolution of laws concerning health and medical attitudes leads to set up standardized tests as a pre-requisite before marketing new medical implants or instruments. Furthermore, for not yet registered or miscellaneous materials, implanted or not, a clinical safety attitude is proposed and has to be respected by the MRI staff to detect and identify them in order to avoid potential accidents.

KEYWORDS: Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Metallic implants, Biohazards, Safety.

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