In July 2023, a 22-year-old woman in the US was injured during an MRI scan because she did not disclose the anal plug she had previously inserted in her body. The device, which she believed was made only of silicone, also contained a core that had metal in it. However, because she did not disclose this during the scan, the magnetic field shifted the sex toy inside her body causing as a result serious injuries.
MRI
Details of the Incident
According to a report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the woman did not inform medical staff about the presence of an anal plug before undergoing the MRI. During the procedure, the toy reacted to the powerful magnetic forces of the MRI machine. When the scan ended, the patient screamed in pain as the technician moved the table.
The woman reported feeling intense pain, nausea, and dizziness, prompting medical staff to call for an ambulance. A radiologist on-site conducted an initial evaluation to ensure she was stable before transport to the hospital.
Further investigation showed that the metallic core of the toy caused it to migrate from her rectum to her chest cavity during the scan. This unexpected movement led to significant internal injuries, though the specific details were not disclosed in the FDA’s report.
The case has since become a good example that healthcare professionals can use to warn patients about the importance of full disclosure.
Why Metal Is Prohibited in MRI Scans
MRI machines utilize powerful magnets to generate detailed images of the body. These magnets interact strongly with metallic objects, making it critical for patients to remove all metal items before the scanning. Items such as jewelry, piercings, belts, watches, and eyeglasses must be taken off. Magnetic cards and even makeup containing metallic particles are also discouraged.
In the case of the sex toy, its silicone coating masked a metallic core, which reacted violently in the MRI’s magnetic field. The object likely moved at a high speed which caused internal damage.
Who Should Avoid MRIs?
Certain individuals should not do MRIs due to the risks associated with metal interactions, including those with:
- Pacemakers: Magnetic fields can disrupt their function.
- Neurostimulators: Often used to manage conditions like Parkinson’s disease.
- Older medical implants: While modern devices are typically non-metallic, older implants, such as vascular clips or valves, may still pose a risk.
Orthopedic implants, such as hip or knee replacements, are usually safe because they are securely anchored by scar tissue. However, small metallic fragments, especially near the eyes, can create serious complications.
Comprehensive List of Potential Problems with MRIs
| Category | Specific Items/Conditions | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Implants | Pacemakers and defibrillators | Magnetic fields can interfere with their function, potentially causing them to stop working or deliver unintended shocks. Older models with ferromagnetic components may move slightly or heat up. Modern "MR-conditional" devices are safer but require specific precautions. |
| Neurostimulators | These devices, used for conditions like Parkinson’s disease, can malfunction, disrupting therapy or causing patient harm. | |
| Cochlear implants | Magnetic fields can damage the internal components or affect hearing. | |
| Metal joint replacements | Most modern replacements are MRI-safe, but older ones may contain ferromagnetic materials, potentially causing slight movement or heating. | |
| Dental implants or braces | Metallic components may distort images, though most modern versions are MRI-compatible. | |
| Vascular stents, clips, or valves | Older versions may contain metal that could move or heat up. Newer implants are typically MRI-safe but should still be disclosed. | |
| Prosthetic limbs | Metallic parts in prosthetics can heat up or distort the MRI image, though modern designs are often compatible. | |
| Drug infusion pumps | Magnetic fields can disrupt the operation of pumps, leading to improper medication delivery. | |
| Intrauterine devices (IUDs) | Metal-containing IUDs may move or heat up. Plastic-only devices are typically safe. | |
| Heart valves or vascular clips | Modern implants are non-magnetic, but older versions can be affected by magnetic fields, causing displacement or heating. | |
| Foreign Metal Objects | Shrapnel or bullet fragments | Magnetic fields can cause these objects to move, especially if near sensitive areas like the eyes, brain, or major blood vessels. |
| Surgical screws, plates, or pins | Generally safe if well-secured, but loose fragments may move or heat up. | |
| Metal fragments from injuries | Unsecured fragments can move, posing risks if located near critical areas. | |
| Tattoo ink with metal particles | Some tattoo inks contain iron oxide, which can heat up, causing discomfort or minor burns. | |
| Piercings and jewelry | Can move, heat up, or interfere with imaging. Must be removed before the scan. | |
| Eyeglasses and hearing aids | Can distort images, become projectiles, or heat up if left on during the scan. | |
| Everyday Items | Watches and fitness trackers | Magnetic fields can damage electronic components or cause heating, leading to burns. |
| Wallets with magnetic cards | Magnetic strips can be erased or corrupted by the MRI’s magnetic field. | |
| Keys, coins, and loose metal objects | Can become dangerous projectiles, posing risks to patients and equipment. | |
| Zippers, belt buckles, and clothing fasteners | Metallic components can heat up or distort the MRI image. | |
| Shoes with metal parts | Metal components may heat up or interfere with the magnetic field, leading to discomfort. | |
| Cosmetics | Makeup with metallic particles | Certain products can heat up, causing minor burns or discomfort. |
| Hairpins and clips | These can become projectiles or heat up, causing burns. | |
| Nail polish with metallic particles | Can interfere with imaging or heat up slightly. | |
| Special Cases | Pregnancy | Generally safe, but contrast agents are avoided due to potential risks to the fetus. |
| Claustrophobia | Anxiety or panic during the scan may require sedation or the use of open MRI machines. | |
| Implanted drug delivery systems | Magnetic fields can disrupt these systems, leading to improper medication delivery. | |
| Retained surgical items | Forgotten metallic objects from previous surgeries can move or heat up during the scan. | |
| Body modifications (e.g., magnet implants) | Implanted magnets or metallic elements can interact dangerously with the MRI’s magnetic field, causing movement or heating. |
Takeaway
This incident shows the importance of honest communication with healthcare providers. Even seemingly private or embarrassing details can have life-threatening consequences if omitted. Full disclosure ensures the safety and success of medical procedures, particularly those involving advanced imaging techniques like MRIs.
FAQs: MRI Safety and Metal Risks
1. Why is metal dangerous during an MRI scan?
Metal can be pulled by the magnetic field, causing injury or damage.
2. How can I make sure I am safe during an MRI?
Tell your doctor about any metal objects or implants in your body.
3. What types of objects are typically unsafe during an MRI?
Pacemakers, jewelry, piercings, and older metal implants.
4. I thought silicone was safe for MRIs. Why was this sex toy a problem?
It had a hidden metallic core that reacted to the magnetic field.
5. Can modern implants like hip replacements or dental braces be affected?
Most modern implants are MRI-safe, but older ones may not be.
6. What should I tell my doctor before an MRI?
Disclose all implants, devices, or foreign objects in your body.
7. What happens if I forget to remove a metal object?
The object may move, heat up, or cause incomplete scan results.
8. Are there alternatives to MRIs for people with metal implants?
Yes, CT scans, ultrasounds, or X-rays may be used instead.
9. What should I do if I feel discomfort during an MRI?
Alert the technician immediately to stop the scan.
References
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023, April 14). MAUDE adverse event report: MRI scanner; system, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfmaude/detail.cfm?mdrfoi__id=16771275&pc=LNH
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