Breast Tissue Expander With Radiofrequency Identification Port: Assessment of MRI Issues.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Radiology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Traditional breast tissue expanders with magnetic ports are unsafe for MRI scans.
• This limitation prevents patients from undergoing crucial MRI diagnostics.
• A novel tissue expander utilizing a radiofrequency identification (RFID) port has been developed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and compatibility of a new RFID tissue expander for MRI.
• Assess potential risks including magnetic field interactions, heating, and image artifacts.
• Determine if the RFID expander maintains functionality under MRI conditions.

Main Methods:

• The RFID breast tissue expander was tested using standardized MRI safety protocols.
• Evaluated magnetic field interactions (attraction, torque) at 3 Tesla (T).
• Assessed MRI-related heating and image artifacts at 1.5 T and 3 T, and functional changes.

Main Results:

• Minor magnetic field interactions (2° deflection, no torque) were observed, posing no risk.
• Temperature elevations were physiologically inconsequential (1.7°C at 1.5 T, 1.9°C at 3 T).
• The RFID expander produced relatively small MRI artifacts and maintained full functionality.

Conclusions:

• The RFID tissue expander is classified as "MR Conditional" for MRI scans at 1.5 T and 3 T.
• Its minimal artifact generation offers advantages over traditional magnetic port expanders.
• This innovation enhances diagnostic imaging accessibility for patients with breast tissue expanders.