Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Functional Neuroimaging Using Ultrasonic Blood-brain Barrier Disruption and Manganese-enhanced MRI
Published on: July 12, 2012
Further studies on the effects of magnetic resonance imaging fields on middle ear implants
E L Applebaum1, G E Valvassori
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago 60612.
Abstract:
We investigated the effects of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) fields on 21 stapedectomy prostheses and other middle ear implants and two different receiver-stimulator modules from 22-channel cochlear implants. None of the middle ear implants was displaced by the magnetic field, except for one platinum-stainless steel stapedectomy piston. Magnetism was not induced in any of the middle ear implants subjected to prolonged exposure in the MRI scanner. We conclude that MRI could pose a hazard to patients who have had stapedectomy using certain platinum-stainless steel piston prostheses and to patients with cochlear implants. Magnetic resonance imaging should pose no hazard to patients who have had the other middle ear implants reported on in this and our previous investigation.
Related Concept Videos
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI
Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

