01 Jul Only with active testing: the reliable MRI suitability of implants
Only with active testing: the reliable MRI suitability of implants
With increasing age, the prevalence of cancer and musculoskeletal or neurodegenerative diseases increases, often requiring magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Things become difficult for radiology when patients have a joint implant. The specialists then rely on precise and reliable statements about the MRI suitability of the specific implant in order to determine the scanning conditions in advance and to avoid complications such as soft tissue warming, translational movements or artifacts, even with passive implants.
Demographic change is making this challenge ever greater. Older patients are often multimorbid. The Notified Bodies are therefore increasingly demanding that manufacturers test medical implants for MRI suitability and label them according to standardized terminology: Implants can be either MR safe, MR conditional or MR unsafe.
Many manufacturers currently make assessments regarding MRI suitability based on literature research or references. However, the information obtained in this way regarding MRI suitability is difficult for radiologists to assess. “If we want to make reliable statements for radiology and for our patients, we have to actively test our implants. That became clear to us at ARTIQO relatively quickly,” says Mario Frank, member of the ARTIQO management, describing the decision-making process for the medium-sized company.
A2® short stem system and 4-motion® knee system tested
For the A2® short stem system and the 4-motion® knee system, complex simulator tests were carried out for all components for 1.5 and 3 Tesla devices. All tests have currently been completed and the test results with specific recommendations for the MRI device settings are available. The test results have been released by the Notified Body and can be accessed in the download area using an online form on our website. We are pleased that we have taken a further step towards the safety of patient care with the extensive tests.