Absolute contraindications (Exclusion from an MRI scan):
MRI produces a very strong magnetic field that interferes with electrical and electronic devices. You can’t have an MRI scan if you have them implanted in your body, in particular if you have:
- Cardiac pacing system
- Insulin pump
- Implanted hearing aid
- Neurostimulators
- Intracranial metal clips
- Pieces of metal in the eye
Relative contraindications (Partial exclusion from an MRI scan):
Relative contraindications to perform an MRI scan are:
- Claustrophobia
- Any metal object in the soft tissue
- Orthopedic implants
- Artificial heart valves
- Permanent tattoo makeup
- Braces
- Pregnancy – not advisable to perform a scan in the first trimester
Notes
For patients with implants (that are relative contraindications) an MRI scan can be conducted only with the consent of the doctor that implanted the device or the referring doctor. They have to confirm that the scan can be performed in an MRI of the 1.5T field strength. In this regard, it is also possible to present a passport issued by the implant manufacturer.