Projectiles Aren’t Your Only Concern
It has been well documented that ferromagnetic objects taken into the MRI suite can cause serious injury, time-consuming delays, and costly damage to your valuable imaging system. As part of all imaging department protocol, patients are asked a series of questions relating to medical history and the possible existence of ferrous implants or other embedded objects, such as permanent pacemakers, cochlear implants, or shell fragments.
Another valid concern are cosmetics that can cause MRI artifacts and excessive heating or burns.
Artifacts: Tattoos, eye makeup, nail polishes, body lotions and others
While it is well-known that permanent cosmetics and tattoos may cause artifacts and both cosmetic and decorative tattoos may be associated with relatively minor, short-term cutaneous reactions, the frequency and severity of soft tissue reactions or other problems related to MR imaging and cosmetic tattoos is unknown.
Of concern to MRI technicians, several reports indicate that certain cosmetics, especially those containing iron oxide or “heavy metal particles” which can produce unwanted artifacts on magnetic resonance (MR) images.
Ferromagnetic Detection of Hair Loss Concealer
Here’s one you may not have thought of: hair loss concealer. In this cosmetic case, the patient may not want to divulge the fact that they use this product and is likely not aware of artifact issues.
In the case of the hair loss concealer that was tested, substantial signal loss was caused by the presence of iron oxide, which exists in a high concentration in this product. Importantly, this particular hair loss concealer gave a positive alarm during testing using a ferromagnetic detection system (FMDS).
FMDS Protects Everyone
Overall, the use of a stationary FMDS significantly enhances the safety level of MRI facilities. Even when there are risks that go unidentified by the patient or staff, FMDS systems an FMDS can raise the red flag and provide a warning to the technician to investigate further.
Choose Your MRI Contractor Carefully
There are many factors to consider when determining the type of FMDS installation. Whether you are an architect, a general contractor, or the end-user, make sure the firm you choose can comprehensively evaluate and provide a recommendation that maximizes revenue potential while reducing risks.
As a division of the largest dedicated Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) shielding company in the world, IMEDCO America has an established reputation for delivering MRI (RF) shielding packages optimized for each individual environment, including the sale and installation of Ferrous Metal Detection systems.
Thanks to a collaborative effort with one of the leading designers and manufacturers of this equipment, Kopp Development, we have been able to integrate their FerrAlert™ Halo-series products into the IMEDCO RF Door entry frame, keeping it visible, safe from damage that wall-mounted designs can sustain, and serviceable.
To learn more contact us here or call us today at 317.773.8500.
