MRI artefacts after Bonebridge implantation

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The Bonebridge (BB) is a transcutaneous bone conduction implant (BCI) designed to avoid skin issues associated with percutaneous systems.
• It is marketed as MRI conditional up to 1.5 Tesla (T).

Observation:

• This report details the extensive neurocranial artifact observed after BB implantation.
• The artifact size must be considered during patient counseling for BCI candidacy.

Findings:

• The BB implant generates a substantial artifact in MRI scans of the neurocranium.
• Percutaneous BCIs produce minimal artifacts, making them suitable for patients requiring brain imaging.

Implications:

• Patients with conductive, mixed, or single-sided hearing loss considered for BCI need counseling regarding MRI limitations.
• For patients with intracranial tumors or other brain conditions requiring MRI, percutaneous BCIs are the recommended implant choice due to minimal artifact interference.