From the Guidelines
Having an MRI with ulcer clips in place is generally safe if the clips are made of non-ferromagnetic materials like titanium or tantalum, but caution is advised with older clips that may contain ferromagnetic materials. The safety of MRI with ulcer clips depends on the type of material used to make the clips. Modern surgical clips are typically made of non-ferromagnetic materials, which are safe for MRI scans 1. However, older clips may contain ferromagnetic materials that could potentially move, heat up, or distort images during an MRI, posing a risk to the patient 1.
Before undergoing an MRI, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about any surgical clips you have, including when they were placed and what type they are. The radiologist may need documentation confirming the MRI compatibility of the clips. If the specific type of clip cannot be determined, alternative imaging methods like CT scans might be recommended instead 1. The concern with incompatible clips is that the strong magnetic field of the MRI could cause them to move, potentially causing internal damage, or they could heat up and cause burns to surrounding tissue.
Some key points to consider when having an MRI with ulcer clips in place include:
- Informing your healthcare provider about any surgical clips you have
- Providing documentation confirming the MRI compatibility of the clips
- Considering alternative imaging methods if the clip type is unknown or incompatible
- Being aware of the potential risks associated with ferromagnetic clips in an MRI environment 1.
It is crucial to prioritize caution and patient safety when considering an MRI with ulcer clips in place, and to follow strict institutional safety procedures to prevent any potential harm 1.
From the Research
MRI Compatibility with Ulcer Clips
- The compatibility of ulcer clips with MRI scans is a concern due to potential safety issues 2.
- A study investigated the safety of MRI-incompatible endoscopic clips in patients undergoing MRI scans and found no serious adverse events, but further tests are needed to verify the safety of these clips 2.
- There is no direct evidence on the safety of MRI scans with ulcer clips in place from the other studies 3, 4, 5, 6.
Safety Considerations for MRI Scans
- MRI scans have become a relatively safe non-invasive diagnostic tool, but specific policies and safety procedures are required to maintain a safe MR environment 4.
- Screening patients with a questionnaire asking about implants, allergies to contrast agents, and other relevant medical information is important to safely perform an MRI scan 4.