(New York City) -- The New York Times reported on the front page of its August 19 issue about past and potential future injuries that can result when ferrous-based objects -- both large and small -- are allowed in MRI scanner rooms.

Injuries, and even death, have resulted when "pilot error" -- those responsible for operating the MRIs -- occurs, according to the Times reporter, Donald G. McNeil, Jr.

The story noted, however, that MRI scans themselves are safe and are not the issue.
Problems arise when patients are not adequately screened for ferrous objects on or in their bodies, or when ferrous-based objects -- from as small as a paper clip to as large as chairs and floor waxers -- are allowed in proximity to MRI magnets.

"This story, coming as it did from a major media source, is likely to focus greater public attention on MRI safety," observed Philip Jacobus, President of DOTmed. "While this is not a new issue -- it's been known for years within the healthcare community -- it should be a definite wake-up call to the owners and operators of MRIs. The tone of this article will put MRI safety on some new radar screens."

According to the Times, the FDA does not regulate in this area, and this issue is not the responsibility of the OEMs. The data on the number of incidents per year is not being accurately tallied, the story also noted, but the implication was that the number was under-reported.

With more than 10,000 MRIs in use today in the U.S. alone, and millions of scans conducted annually, there are bound to be more incidents going forward.

The helium used to power the magnets was also said to poise a safety issue, albeit a smaller one.

DOTmed News will keep an eye on this story, and will report on any self-regulatory, legal, or legislative developments that arise.

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