Magnetic resonance imaging and the implantable port

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a promising noninvasive procedure in cancer detection, producing images without using ionizing radiation. Since the heart of the MRI is a large magnet, certain metals such as stainless steel can cause artifacts in the images. Depending upon its composition, the presence of a metal implantable port could interfere with this diagnostic procedure. Manufacturers of metal ports recommended that the port not be exposed to the magnetic field. High-grade titanium ports reportedly produce minimal artifacts, and those of nonmetal materials reportedly produce no artifacts. Knowing which metal ports are acceptable is important, but because of the wide spectrum of proprietary steels used in port manufacture, healthcare professionals may not know the metal type unless the manufacturer provides this information and it is recorded in the medical record. With the increased use of both implantable ports and MRI, healthcare professionals need to know which type of port is implanted and its possible effects on MRI.