Can I wear plastic in MRI?

Yes, some plastic items are safe to wear in an MRI, but it's crucial to understand the details. According to the provided reference, items made of plastic can be considered MR safe, meaning they pose no known hazards in the MRI environment.

However, not all plastics are created equal. Some plastics might contain metallic components or coatings that could pose a risk during an MRI. Therefore, it's imperative to understand the potential dangers.

Understanding MR Safety

Before entering an MRI scan room, it's important to understand these safety designations:

• MR Safe: An item that poses no known hazards in all MRI environments. The reference specifically mentions plastic as an example of a potentially MR safe material.
• MR Conditional: An item that has been demonstrated to pose no known hazards in a specified MRI environment with specific conditions of use (e.g., a specific magnetic field strength).
• MR Unsafe: An item that is known to pose hazards in all MRI environments.

Practical Implications for Wearing Plastic in an MRI

While plastic can be MR Safe, consider these points:

• Pure Plastics are Best: Ensure the plastic item is pure plastic and does not contain any metal components. For example, plastic-rimmed glasses might contain metal hinges.
• Avoid Coated Plastics: If a plastic item has a metallic coating, it could heat up or be attracted to the MRI magnet.
• Remove Accessories: Even if clothing is primarily plastic, remove any non-plastic accessories, like metal zippers, buttons, or jewelry.
• Always Consult MRI Staff: The best practice is always to declare everything you are wearing to the MRI staff. They will be able to determine if an item is safe to bring into the MRI room or if it needs to be removed. Their decision overrides any general guidance.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate when plastic might, or might not, be safe:

• Safe: A plain plastic hair tie without any metal embellishments.
• Unsafe: Plastic-framed glasses with metal hinges.
• Potentially Unsafe: A plastic medical device that may contain metallic components. (Always consult with your doctor and the MRI technician.)

Summary Table