Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 14, 2026

Handheld Metal Detector Screening for Metallic Foreign Body Ingestion in Children
04:55

Handheld Metal Detector Screening for Metallic Foreign Body Ingestion in Children

Published on: September 11, 2018

MRI-induced soft tissue pain: incidental finding of a 15-year-old foreign body

Theofilos El Sayed Omar1, Ussamah El-Khani, Jean Nehme

  • 1Keele University Medical School, University Hospital of North Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.

BMJ Case Reports
|February 19, 2013
PubMed

Insights

An 82-year-old woman experienced finger pain during an MRI, revealing a 15-year metallic foreign body. This highlights the need for vigilance in screening for metallic foreign bodies before MRI scans.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a crucial diagnostic tool.
  • Metallic foreign bodies pose significant safety risks during MRI procedures.
  • Pre-MRI screening protocols are essential for patient safety.

Observation:

  • An 82-year-old female patient reported intense right middle finger pain during an MRI scan.
  • The pain was associated with an incidental finding of a metallic foreign body.
  • The foreign body was located in the distal phalanx of the right middle finger and had been present for 15 years.

Findings:

  • The metallic foreign body in the distal phalanx caused significant pain during the MRI.
  • The presence of the foreign body was not identified prior to the MRI scan.
  • The MRI procedure itself may have exacerbated symptoms related to the foreign body.

Implications:

  • Clinicians must remain vigilant in screening for metallic foreign bodies before MRI.
  • A low threshold for plain imaging (e.g., X-ray) is recommended prior to MRI if a metallic foreign body is suspected.
  • Thorough pre-MRI checklists and patient history are critical to prevent potential complications.

More Related Videos

Protocol for the Evaluation of MRI Artifacts Caused by Metal Implants to Assess the Suitability of Implants and the Vulnerability of Pulse Sequences08:19

Protocol for the Evaluation of MRI Artifacts Caused by Metal Implants to Assess the Suitability of Implants and the Vulnerability of Pulse Sequences

Published on: May 17, 2018

Related Concept Videos

Magnetic Resonance Imaging01:24

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI01:14

Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI

Introduction: MRI and CT scans are crucial advancements in medical imaging techniques, playing a vital role in diagnosing conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Each scan serves distinct purposes, targets specific areas, and requires unique nursing duties.
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: CMRI01:21

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, or CMRI, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that employs a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to create precise images of the heart and arteries. It provides comprehensive information about cardiac anatomy, function, perfusion, and tissue characterization without ionizing radiation.IndicationsCMRI diagnoses various heart conditions, including tissue damage from heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, myocarditis, aortic issues (tears, aneurysms,...
Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging01:27

Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...