METALLIC

• Ferromagnetic metals cause severe inhomogeneity in the magnetic field
• Nonferromagnetic metals can also result in local signal intensity voids in the vicinity
• May lead to image distortion – impacted by object shape and composition
• Susceptibility greater at higher field strengths
• If extensive, may be difficult to assess recurrence at the lumpectomy site
• Fix:
  • Remove all metallic objects if possible
  • Choose titanium markers over stainless steel

Related Radiology Article: Harvey JA, Hendrick RE, Coll JM, Nicholson BT, Burkholder BT, Cohen MA. Breast MR imaging artifacts: how to recognize and fix them. Radiographics. 2007 Oct;27(suppl_1):S131-45.