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Metallic microbeads for hair extensions: Hidden dangers for magnetic resonance imaging

Ravish Kapoor1, Jihong Wang1, Acsa M Zavala1

  • 1The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA.

Radiology Case Reports
|July 11, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Metallic microbeads in hair extensions pose a thermal injury risk during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Thorough screening is crucial for patient safety, especially during anesthesia.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Imaging
  • Patient Safety
  • Materials Science

Background:

  • Metallic foreign objects are a known risk for thermal injury during Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
  • Patient screening protocols are essential to identify potential hazards before MRI procedures.

Observation:

  • A 33-year-old woman with numerous metallic microbeads in her hair extensions required a cervical spine MRI under anesthesia.
  • The quantity, configuration, and attachment method of the microbeads presented a significant safety concern.

Findings:

  • This case represents the first reported instance of metallic microbeads from hair extensions posing a risk during MRI.
  • The metallic microbeads were identified as a potential source of thermal injury.

Implications:

  • Highlights the need for comprehensive safety screening in MRI, including assessment of cosmetic or accessory items.
  • Emphasizes the importance of clinician awareness regarding novel metallic foreign objects and their interaction with MRI environments.
  • Underscores the potential risks associated with hair extensions containing metallic components during MRI procedures.
Keywords:
Magnetic resonance imagingMicrobeadsThermal injury

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