[Whole-body ferromagnetic detector systems in clinical MRI]

In spite of technical and organizational measures, ferromagnetic objects still find their way into the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) room and can cause severe injuries.

A detailed patient education and MRI safety training for personnel are necessary to avoid MRI incidents with ferromagnetic objects.

Whole body ferromagnetic detection systems should increase patient safety and minimize risks for personnel and MRI equipment in the clinical routine.

In a clinical MRI setting, a screener system used for outpatients and inpatients (n = 400) identified unknown ferrous objects in 2 % of the cases. In two of these cases patients were found to be in possession of unknown foreign ferrous objects. Furthermore, a door guard system only used for outpatients (n = 2500) detected unknown ferromagnetic objects in 0.3 % of the cases.

The number of ferrous objects that are unknowingly brought into the scanner room can be reduced with a whole body ferromagnetic detection system. For an optimal benefit of the system a ferrous-free environment and perfectly ferrous-free clothing for the medical personnel are necessary. In the clinical routine, the benefit of the system is limited particularly for immobile patients who have to remain in a horizontal position.

A whole body ferromagnetic detection system can complement but not replace patient education and MRI safety training.