MR Safety

Drug Delivery Patch

If the metallic foil of the patch is in the volume of excitation, the case should be discussed with the radiologist. An icepack can be placed directly on the patch since the problem is heat. If the patch is removed a specific staff member should be given responsibility for insuring that it is replaced or repositioned.

Accompanying Family/Personnel

Persons who accompany a patient going into the MR scanner should be screened in the same way as a patient.

Fetal MR Contrast Agent

Contrast should be given only when there is overwhelming potential benefit to the patient and/or fetus outweighing theoretical but potential real risk of long term exposure to the developing fetus. MR contrast passes through the placental barrier and enters the fetal circulation. The MR contrast is filtered in the fetal kidneys and excreted into the amniotic fluid and may remain in the amniotic fluid for an indeterminate amount of time until it is reabsorbed and eliminated. The impact on the fetus from the free gadolinium ions in the amniotic fluid is unclear.

Cardiac Pacemakers and Defibrillators

Pacemakers and defibrillators are contra-indications for routine MR imaging.

Links

American College of Radiology

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