Having a 5-dollar coin in your pocket during an MRI scan can potentially affect the results. The presence of metal objects can create artifacts in the images, which may obscure or distort the area being examined. It is generally advised to remove all metallic items before undergoing an MRI to ensure the clearest and most accurate imaging results?
Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing lower back pain, and after a blood test showed a positive reaction for AS, I underwent an MRI scan of my bones.
After receiving a contrast injection from the nurse, I had the scan done three hours later.
Before the scan, I removed all my coins and watch, but when I got home, I found a 5-dollar coin in my pocket.
I don't recall taking it out, so I'm unsure if the coin was present during the scan.
If it was, I would like to know if this would affect the accuracy of the results.
Would the entire scan be inaccurate, or just the area near the pocket? Can this be determined from the report? If the results are inaccurate, how long should I wait before undergoing another MRI for safety? Thank you!
cindy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/02
Dr. Wu Bin'an reply Radiology
Dear Cindy: Your question is answered as follows: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) utilizes a powerful magnet, which is housed in a tunnel approximately 50 to 60 centimeters wide and over 1 meter long.
In simple terms, it is a large and heavy magnet that emits a magnetic field tens of thousands of times stronger than the Earth's magnetic field (the magnetic field used in clinical MRI is about 30,000 times that of the Earth).
Therefore, for safety reasons, individuals with implanted metal objects in their bodies, such as metal clips in the brain, pacemakers, or those who may have iron particles in their eyes, should not undergo MRI examinations.
It is essential to remove all metal items before the scan, including hairpins, earrings, necklaces, watches, jewelry, pens, safety pins, coins, magnetic cards (credit cards, debit cards, metro tickets), keys, nail clippers, belts, and bras.
You mentioned that you removed your 10-dollar coins and watch before the scan, but upon returning home, you discovered a 5-dollar coin in your pocket.
Therefore, you are uncertain whether the 5-dollar coin was with you during the examination.
If the 5-dollar coin has magnetic properties, you would likely have felt its presence during the scan; otherwise, it would not have had any impact.
Of course, there is no issue with the accuracy of the examination.
Reply Date: 2006/05/02
More Info
When it comes to MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans, the presence of metallic objects can indeed affect the results, but the impact largely depends on the type of metal and its location. In your case, you are concerned about a 5-cent coin that may have been left in your pocket during the MRI scan.
MRI machines utilize powerful magnets, which can interact with metallic objects. Generally, small coins, like a 5-cent coin, are made of non-ferromagnetic materials, meaning they do not have a strong magnetic response. Therefore, if the coin was indeed in your pocket during the scan, it is unlikely to have caused any significant interference with the imaging results. The primary concern with metallic objects in an MRI setting is typically with larger ferromagnetic items, such as certain types of jewelry, watches, or medical implants (like pacemakers or metal plates), which can pose safety risks and lead to distorted images.
In your situation, if the coin was present during the MRI, it would most likely affect only the localized area around where the coin was situated. However, since the coin is small and not made of ferromagnetic material, it is improbable that it would have caused any substantial distortion in the images. MRI scans are designed to provide detailed images of the body's internal structures, and while artifacts can occur due to metallic objects, they are usually identifiable on the images. Radiologists are trained to recognize these artifacts and can often determine if they are due to external metallic objects.
If you are concerned about the accuracy of your MRI results, it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can review the images and the report to assess whether there are any artifacts that could indicate interference from the coin. If the images are clear and the radiologist has not noted any issues, it is likely that the presence of the coin did not compromise the results.
In terms of redoing the MRI, if there is a need for a follow-up scan due to concerns about the accuracy of the initial results, it is generally safe to schedule another MRI as soon as necessary. There is no specific waiting period required unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise based on your individual health situation.
In summary, while it is always best practice to remove all metallic objects before an MRI, a small coin like a 5-cent piece is unlikely to significantly impact the results. If you have any lingering concerns, it is best to consult with your doctor or the radiologist who interpreted your MRI. They can provide clarity on the results and whether any further imaging is warranted. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure you receive the best care possible.
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