Introduction
In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), imaging is performed with the aid of a strong magnetic field. The magnetic flux density is up to 3 Tesla. This results in the alignment of atomic nuclei in the body along the magnetic field lines. Especially older tattoo inks contain magnetically active ingredients (especially iron), which are also influenced by the magnetic field and may also interfere with imaging. In rare cases, this can lead to complications for the patient.
Can I get an MRI with a tattoo?
MRI imaging is possible with tattoos, but before the examination, various aspects should be discussed with the treating radiologist. The patient should inform the doctor about the ingredients of the tattoo colors. The tattoo colors used in Germany since the 1990s usually contain few to no magnetic ingredients and are suitable for MRI.
In addition, the localization and size of the tattoo are decisive, whether an MRI examination is possible and useful. Tattoos in the area of the body part to be examined can cause disturbances in the imaging and consequently a lower resolution of the MRI image. The same effects can also be seen with particularly large tattoos in the area of the body part to be examined.
How great is the danger of a burn?
The alignment of magnetic ingredients of the tattoos can cause burns of the skin during an MRI examination. These are superficial burns of the first degree, which only affect the epidermis. However, a burn caused by an MRI examination is extremely rare.
This is because all risk factors are discussed with the doctor before the examination. During the examination, the patient is also given a push-button in his hand, which he can press at any time as soon as he feels a warming or the first signs of a burn. This stops the examination before a first degree burn can occur. Heating of the skin or a burn develops slowly during the examination, which ensures that the patient can react in time. Burns can also occur when performing an MRI with piercing.
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