Near field communication (NFC) device: Evaluation of MRI issues

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Device Technology
• Radiology

Background:

• Near Field Communication (NFC) offers secure, short-range wireless communication for healthcare.
• An implantable NFC device with a ferrite rod was developed for hand implantation.
• Evaluating MRI compatibility is crucial for medical implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety and compatibility of an implantable NFC device with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• To determine potential risks such as magnetic interactions, heating, and functional changes during MRI scans.
• To establish MRI guidelines for patients with this specific NFC implant.

Main Methods:

• Assessed magnetic field interactions (force, torque) at 3-Tesla.
• Evaluated MRI-related heating at 1.5-Tesla and 3-Tesla.
• Tested for functional changes and artifacts under MRI conditions.
• Simulated intended use scenarios for the implant.

Main Results:

• The NFC device showed a 90° deflection but no movement during simulated use.
• Maximum temperature increases were 1.7°C at 1.5-Tesla and 1.9°C at 3-Tesla.
• No operational changes were observed in the NFC device due to MRI exposure.
• Artifacts were noted but considered relative to the device size.

Conclusions:

• The evaluated NFC device is MR Conditional for 1.5-Tesla and 3-Tesla MRI scans.
• This is the first NFC device to undergo comprehensive MRI safety evaluation.
• The device can be used in Normal Operating Mode (2.0-W/kg SAR).