Suspected MRI associated burn injuries in dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a valuable diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine.
• Thermal injuries are an under-recognized adverse event associated with MRI procedures.
• Canine patients may be at risk for specific types of MRI-related burns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate cases of presumed MRI-induced thermal injuries in dogs.
• To identify the characteristic patterns and potential mechanisms of these injuries.
• To highlight the clinical implications and necessary improvements in MRI safety protocols for veterinary practice.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case review of five canine patients with linear burns post-MRI.
• Analysis of injury patterns, severity (superficial to full-thickness), and clinical outcomes.
• Evaluation of potential contributing factors including patient positioning and ECG lead management.

Main Results:

• Five cases of MRI-induced burns with a distinctive linear pattern were identified.
• Injuries ranged from superficial to full-thickness, suggesting significant thermal energy transfer.
• Likely mechanisms include resonant circuit heating and antenna effects, exacerbated by patient positioning and ECG lead insulation.

Conclusions:

• MRI-induced thermal injuries in dogs, presenting as linear burns, require greater clinical recognition.
• Proper patient positioning and meticulous insulation of ECG leads are critical to prevent these adverse events.
• Enhanced MRI safety protocols and monitoring are necessary in veterinary settings to mitigate risks and ensure patient well-being.