Ethical Issues of MRI
Many claustrophobic people are unable to stand the cramped and confined space and the bore is quite small to accommodate people who are obese. There has been very limited research on the biological effects of the magnetic fields on a developing fetus. Most MRI facilities do not want to scan pregnant women, as they are scared of damaging the fetus. Patients, who have been scanned and do have tattoos, have described a burning sensation around the area of their tattoos that ranged from a slight discomfort to a severe pain. Small things such as paperclips, pens, keys, scissors, and stethoscopes can be suddenly pulled out of pockets and off bodies, and fly toward the opening of the MRI at high speeds, making them dangerous projectiles. Big objects pose an even greater risk. Doctors are beginning to use more plastic prosthetics and implants because many of the elderly members of society have metal versions. This is slightly ironic, as it is these people who may be in the most need for an MRI scan, which they are unfortunately unable to receive.
Risks of MRI
Allergic Reaction Risk
The type of contrast dye most commonly used with MRI is gadolinium. This dye is not recommended for patients with kidney disease because of the risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). The risk of allergic reaction to gadolinium is very small, and the technician administering the test closely monitors heart rate and breathing to watch for signs of possible adverse effects.
Fetal Damage Risk
Electromagnetic currents used during MRI also carry the possible risk of causing acoustic damage to a first-trimester fetus. Most studies indicate that MRI during pregnancy is safe, hospital administration requires MRI devices labelled to indicate that safety to a developing foetus during the first three months of gestation has not been established.
Sedative Reaction Risk
Sedatives are not typically used for MRI scanning; however, some patients experience profound anxiety while having to lie motionless within the large metal cylinder used to perform the exam.The machine also makes a loud banging noise throughout the test that might be unnerving for some patients. These patients can be treated with a sedative to help them relax.
The type of contrast dye most commonly used with MRI is gadolinium. This dye is not recommended for patients with kidney disease because of the risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). The risk of allergic reaction to gadolinium is very small, and the technician administering the test closely monitors heart rate and breathing to watch for signs of possible adverse effects.
Fetal Damage Risk
Electromagnetic currents used during MRI also carry the possible risk of causing acoustic damage to a first-trimester fetus. Most studies indicate that MRI during pregnancy is safe, hospital administration requires MRI devices labelled to indicate that safety to a developing foetus during the first three months of gestation has not been established.
Sedative Reaction Risk
Sedatives are not typically used for MRI scanning; however, some patients experience profound anxiety while having to lie motionless within the large metal cylinder used to perform the exam.The machine also makes a loud banging noise throughout the test that might be unnerving for some patients. These patients can be treated with a sedative to help them relax.