What are some contraindications to the use of MRI?
In general, presence of metallic or electronic objects in the body such as orbital metallic foreign bodies, cerebral aneurysm clips, transvenous pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, neurostimulators, and cochlear implants are contraindications for MRI, due to risks of device malfunction, device movement with tissue injury, or device heating with tissue injury. However, some patients with newer MRI-compatible versions of implanted metallic or electronic devices may be able to undergo MRI. A comprehensive website that provides updated information regarding the MRI safety of implants and devices is found at www.mrisafety.com . Claustrophobia is also a relative contraindication to MRI but can be alleviated by using patient sedation, a wide bore short length scanner, or an open field scanner. Pregnancy is not a contraindication to MRI, but it is a contraindication for use of gadolinium-based contrast material.
