Is it a lie that you can't get an MRI scan if you have a tattoo? Is it real?

 

Have you ever been told that you can't get an MRI scan if you have tattoos? In recent years, it has been possible to see people wearing tattoos with a sense of fashion, mainly among the younger generation. We will explain the truth behind such rumors.

What is an MRI scan?

MRI is an abbreviation of “Magnetic Resonance Imaging” and is an examination that uses magnetic force to image organs. Since 70% of human tissue is composed of water (H2O), in MRI, hydrogen atoms (H) in water (H2O) 'resonate', and this phenomenon is recognized as an electrical signal and processed by a computer to create an image.

What diseases can an MRI scan detect?

Diseases found in MRI scans include cerebral infarction and tumor, vascular disease, spinal disc, joint ligament injury and meniscus injury, uterine, ovarian and prostate abnormalities, breast cancer, liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic tumors, and coronary artery stenosis. Because MRI takes a long time to examine, it is suitable for imaging areas with little movement, such as the head, spinal cord, spine, joints, and pelvis. However, in recent years, since the device and imaging method have been improved, it has become useful for examination of moving parts such as the abdomen and heart.

How is it different from a CT scan?

All are inspection devices for obtaining cross-sectional images of the body, but the means for obtaining images are different. CT uses X-rays, so-called radiation, while MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to obtain images. In other words, since there is no risk of exposure to MRI, even children can be tested with confidence. However, because it uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves, there are precautions and limitations that CT does not have. Be sure to check the precautions with your doctor or examination technician in advance.

Can't I get an MRI scan if I have a tattoo?

Yes, if you have a tattoo, you will need to check with your doctor as there is a possibility that you may not be able to get an MRI scan. In addition, other people who are pregnant or may be pregnant, or those who have cerebral artery clips, artificial heart valves, stents, dentures, or contraceptive rings are also required to be checked. People with conventional implantable devices (such as pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, artificial inner ears, ventricular shunts, spinal cord stimulators, etc.) are not eligible for MRI examinations. However, recently, implantable devices capable of MRI examinations have been developed and introduced. However, there are facility standards and conditions that must be met for implementation, so facilities that can respond are limited.

What's preventing an MRI from getting a tattoo?

This is because if a metal such as iron oxide is used for the color pigment of a tattoo, the component may be heated by the RF wave (radio frequency pulse) irradiated to obtain an MR image and cause burns. In particular, it is necessary to be careful because tattoos or designs with dark pigments are easily affected. A countermeasure to immediately stop the device when it feels heat is considered, but in reality, it seems to be a low-temperature burn, which can be known after the inspection is complete.

How about art makeup?

It is known that there is no problem in MRI scans because the metal content contained in pigments dedicated to art makeup is quite low. However, depending on the colorant used, some have a high metal content, so you need to be careful. In addition, in a recent study, it is known that burns in art makeup are not caused by the metal itself, but because the eyeliner above and below the open eyes is shaped like a ring, so it is known that an induced current is generated and heat is generated. So, if you close your eyes during the test, you can say there is no problem.

After all, can you get an MRI scan? can't you take it?

The reality is that this judgment differs between hospitals and doctors, so disagreement. However, MRI manufacturers do not recommend MRI scans for cases with tattoos or art makeup. However, if it is judged that the advantages of conducting an inspection are great, there are cases where sufficient in-formed outlets are implemented and inspections are conducted.

Please teach the person with the tattoo the flow of the MRI scan.

First, you need to be informed and consent from your doctor about the risk of burns from performing an MRI scan. The medical radiologist adjusts the settings of the imaging conditions and, if possible, takes a method to reduce the possibility of burns by using a low-profile device. Also, prepare for cooling or observe enough, and if there is a problem, it will be dealt with immediately. Also, after the test is finished, check whether there is any discomfort or low-temperature burns, etc.

Are you saying that each person responds differently?

you're right. According to the Medical Radiology Association, the judgment of an MRI scan in the case of tattoos is made by doctors and dentists according to individual circumstances, diseases, and economic circumstances, and is of the view that it is not uniform. It will be judged on an individual case basis. Therefore, it is recommended that people with tattoos ask ahead of time if an MRI scan is available.

This is not to say that people with tattoos can never get an MRI. Also, just because your tattoo's coloring pigment contains iron oxide doesn't necessarily mean it will cause burns. First, report the tattoo to your doctor and talk to the medical radiologist who will perform the examination.

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It has been shown that the determination of whether an MRI scan can be performed in the presence of a tattoo is not uniform and responses are reviewed individually. You may need to discuss the benefits of an MRI scan and the risks associated with tattoos with your doctor or radiologist. You may also overlook the existence of a tattoo, so self-report is a must.