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Safety evaluation of titanium middle ear prostheses at 3.0 tesla
Angela D Martin1, Colin L W Driscoll, Christopher P Wood
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, USA.
Summary
Titanium middle ear prostheses are safe for 3.0 tesla MRI scans. Studies show these devices exhibit negligible magnetic field interaction and no heating, ensuring patient safety during imaging.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Radiology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a crucial diagnostic tool.
- The increasing use of MRI necessitates safety assessments for implanted medical devices.
- Titanium middle ear prostheses are commonly used, requiring evaluation for MRI compatibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety of titanium middle ear prostheses in a 3.0 tesla (T) MRI environment.
- To assess magnetic field interactions, including motion and heating, of these prostheses.
Main Methods:
- Ex vivo testing of titanium middle ear prostheses from three vendors at 3 T.
- Assessment of rotational and translational motion in a static magnetic field.
- Measurement of radiofrequency-induced heating during simulated MRI procedures.
Main Results:
- Twenty-one of 24 titanium prostheses showed no movement in the static magnetic field.
- The three prostheses exhibiting minimal movement had negligible translational or rotational forces.
- No significant heating effects were detected in the tested titanium prostheses.
- A ferromagnetic stainless steel prosthesis served as a positive control, showing significant displacement.
Conclusions:
- Titanium middle ear prostheses demonstrate a negligible risk of magnetic field interaction at 3 T.
- These prostheses are considered safe for patients undergoing 3.0 T MRI examinations.
- The findings support the use of titanium middle ear prostheses without contraindications related to MRI scans.