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Safety of MR scanning in patients with nonferromagnetic aneurysm clips
G L Pride1, J Kowal, D B Mendelsohn
1Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 75235-8896, USA.
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to report our surveillance of patients with nonferromagnetic aneurysm clips (NFAC) who have undergone magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Forty-six patients with NFAC underwent MRI over a 7-year period. Medical records were studied for evidence of subjective or objective clinical findings as a result of the MRI scan. In two patients with subjective complaints, computed tomograms (CT) were reviewed and patient interviews conducted. No significant neurologic signs or longterm symptoms were experienced. Two patients did not complete their MRI scans due to transient unilateral head pain in one and head "pressure" in another. CT scans in these patients demonstrated no evidence for hemorrhage or visible change in clip position. We documented no objective adverse outcome of patients undergoing MRI with NFAC, confirming that MRI can be performed safely in patients with nonferromagnetic aneurysm clips. The cause of subjective complaints in two of our patients is unknown.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is safe for patients with nonferromagnetic aneurysm clips (NFAC). Surveillance showed no objective adverse outcomes, though two patients reported transient symptoms during their MRI scans.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
- Medical Device Safety
Background:
- Patients with cerebral aneurysms often have nonferromagnetic aneurysm clips (NFAC) implanted.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a crucial diagnostic tool for neurological conditions.
- The safety of MRI in patients with NFAC requires careful evaluation due to potential magnetic interactions.
Observation:
- A 7-year surveillance study monitored 46 patients with NFAC who underwent MRI.
- Medical records and patient interviews were used to assess for adverse events.
- Two patients reported transient symptoms (head pain, pressure) during MRI; two did not complete scans.
Findings:
- No significant neurological signs or long-term symptoms were observed in any patient.
- Computed tomography (CT) scans showed no hemorrhage or clip displacement in symptomatic patients.
- No objective adverse outcomes were documented, confirming MRI safety with NFAC.
Implications:
- MRI can be safely performed in patients with nonferromagnetic aneurysm clips.
- The cause of transient subjective symptoms during MRI in some patients remains undetermined.
- This study supports the continued use of MRI for patient management with NFAC.