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Is MRI Advisable While Having Metal Cages And Screws In The Neck?
I had major neck surgery 2 days in a row in 2015. I have cadaver materials, titanium cages, screws and steel plates in my neck. Now I am being told two discs below are bad: one slipping and another bulging. This surgeon said I need surgery as soon as possible but also said he may have to remove some of the hardware already there to attach new hardware to hold thes two new areas in place. But he said he was not going to do I am all right before the surgery. I am not comfortable with that or some of the answers he gave me. I am seeking a second opinion. I am told I will need an MRI FOR THE NEW DOC TO SEE WHAT IS GOINGON. I ALSO HEARD FROM ANOTHER SOURCE that ( sorry for the caps) that I should not have an MRI due to the hardware already in my neck. Can you tell me, is it all right to have an MRI with the titanium and steel in my neck.
Tue, 23 Aug 2016
Hello,
Thank you for your query.
Titanium screws are safe for MRI.
Other materials, however may pose a risk.
Usually the metal implants deep within the body don't pose a risk of dislodgement.
However, the steel in your neck needs to be assessed as to whether it is safe for an MRI. (depends on how deep it is and what implants are used (plates or screws)
I recommend that you consult your treating doctor (surgeon) and the radiologist before you have the MRI done. Hope this helps
Wish you good health
Thank you for your query.
Titanium screws are safe for MRI.
Other materials, however may pose a risk.
Usually the metal implants deep within the body don't pose a risk of dislodgement.
However, the steel in your neck needs to be assessed as to whether it is safe for an MRI. (depends on how deep it is and what implants are used (plates or screws)
I recommend that you consult your treating doctor (surgeon) and the radiologist before you have the MRI done. Hope this helps
Wish you good health
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