Man gets sucked into MRI machine: Main safety protocols for MRI scans

In a tragic incident, a man recently died after he was sucked into an MRI machine, possibly due to a metallic chain he was wearing at a hospital in New York. The man had entered the MRI room without permission. The powerful magnetic force of the MRI machine pulled him in, leading to his death. Following this incident, experts have issued precautions for those undergoing an MRI scan.

More magnetic force than gravitational pull
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used to create detailed structural images of the internal organs. An MRI machine works by using a strong magnetic force and radio waves to create detailed images. The magnetic force of an MRI machine is 30,000 – 60,000 times stronger than Earth’s gravitational pull. If metallic objects enter the magnetic field of this machine, it would lead to dangerous mishaps.

How does an MRI machine work?
An MRI machine works by using powerful magnets to create a strong magnetic field that aligns protons in the body. The radio waves that are transmitted stimulate these protons, causing them to spin out of equilibrium. When the protons return to the original alignment, they emit signals that are captured and processed into images. An MRI scan is useful for capturing detailed images of internal organs, particularly the brain, spinal cord, nerves, soft tissues, and blood vessels. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, the MRI machine doesn’t use ionising radiation, making it safer.

Safety protocol
Remove metallic objects
All metallic objects on the body, such as ornaments, watches, credit cards, key chains, hairpins, dental braces, hearing aids, and mobile phones, should be removed before entering the MRI room. The strong magnetic force of the MRI machine could suck in these.

Metallic implants inside the body
The doctor or radiographer should be informed if you have metallic implants, such as insulin pumps, cochlear implants, stents, or artificial limbs, inside your body. Such objects could be drawn in and rendered useless by the MRI machine.

Pregnant women and nursing mothers
Pregnant women should inform their doctor before undergoing MRI scans. Although MRI is generally considered safe during pregnancy, they are often advised to avoid it during the first trimester.

Claustrophobia
Claustrophobia is an intense fear of enclosed spaces. Therefore, people with claustrophobia may experience discomfort due to the enclosed tubular structure of the MRI machine. If this condition is identified early, it can be managed through counselling.

Remain still
The patient should lie still inside the MRI machine for at least 15–30 minutes to capture clear images.
Allergies
If contrast agents are used while scanning, you should inform the doctor or radiologist about any allergies.

Burn
Metal buttons or zippers on the pants may become heated due to the metallic force of the machine and cause burns on the body. So, you should wear only the clothes that are provided in the MRI room.
Loud noise
MRI machines can produce loud noises while in operation. So, earplugs or headphones could be used to protect your ears from this.

Guidelines to follow in an MRI room
Everyone should strictly follow the rules and guidelines of the MRI room.
1) Do not enter the MRI room without permission. Read the warning boards placed outside the MRI room.
2) Trolleys, wheelchairs and oxygen cylinders shouldn’t be brought inside as the machine emits a strong magnetic force.
3) Follow the instructions of the MRI technician and other employees. Do not hesitate to inform them promptly if you experience any discomfort.

MRI scanning plays a pivotal role in modern medical science. So, handling it safely is as important as relying on its efficiency. Strive to lead a healthy and fulfilling life by prioritising safety.

MRI safety week
MRI Safety Week is an annual event held during the last week of July to promote awareness about the safety protocols related to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures. However, there is a tragic history behind the observance of MRI Safety Week around the world.

In 2001, a six-year-old boy lost his life after an oxygen cylinder was sucked into the machine and hit his head. This incident shocked the international medical community and raised concerns about the risks of bringing metallic objects into the MRI room.

Similar incidents have also been reported in India. In 2018, a young man tried to enter the MRI room with an oxygen cylinder, which was then sucked in and hit his head, causing immediate death. Such tragic incidents prompted the authorities to tighten MRI safety guidelines and raise worldwide awareness about the safety protocols.

(The writer is a PACS and MS lead at the Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation. He is also the chairman of the Professional Alliance of Indian Radiographers based in the United Kingdom.)