Radiofrequency-induced heating safety of brain MRI scans at 7 T in the presence of a shoulder implant
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans using head coils at 7 T are often contraindicated in patients with shoulder implants because of concerns regarding radiofrequency-induced heating of the implants, leading many of these patients to be denied the benefits of high-field MRI scans. Further assessment of the heating of these implants during 7 T MRI is therefore needed. The goal of this study was to evaluate the temperature increase in a shoulder implant during MRI at 7 T using a pTx head coil in phantom scans. In addition, the occurrence of brain image quality degradation caused by artifacts in the presence of a shoulder implant was assessed. METHODS: The temperature of a reverse total shoulder implant positioned in an ASTM standard phantom filled with polyacrylic gel was measured with fluoroptic sensors during 7 T MRI using a pTX head coil. Brain scans of a single participant with a shoulder implant were also performed using the same protocol as in the phantom scans. RESULTS: No significant temperature increase (>1 °C) of the implant was observed during MRI in the phantom scans, and no imaging artifacts were seen in the brain during the in vivo scans. CONCLUSIONS: Brain MRI at 7 T may be possible in individuals with shoulder implants without affecting the image quality.
Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Pallab K. Bhattacharyya, Jason C. Ho, Stephen E. Jones, Mark J. Lowe
Institutions: Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,380
OpenAlex ID: W7166853214