Which colors cause problems in MRI? | MRT and Tattoos – You have to consider that!

Which colors cause problems in MRI?

The tattoo colors have changed a lot in the last decades regarding their ingredients. While 20-30 years ago, magnetic ingredients (iron carbonates, iron hydroxide, iron oxide) were still frequently used, since the 1990s, increasing attention has been paid to avoiding these ingredients. Nevertheless, the use of magnetic substances is not prohibited. Thus, magnetic substances can still be found (albeit in very small amounts) in tattoo colors – iron hydroxide and iron carbonate in white, iron oxide in red, and iron ammonium ferrocyanide in blue. Colors that often cause problems during an MRI examination are red, white and black.

What influence does the tattoo have on the image quality of the MRT?

The influence of a tattoo on the image quality depends on the location of the tattoo. For example, a tattoo on the upper arm usually does not cause any problems during the MRI examination of the knee. However, if the tattoo is located in the area of the body to be examined, it can cause disturbances in the imaging.

Examination results can be massively influenced and sometimes lose a lot of their resolution. An overlay of the relevant image by the tattoo is also possible. Another decisive factor is the size of the tattoo, the intensity and the color direction of the colors used. Especially large tattoos with magnetic ingredients can strongly influence the imaging. If an MRI examination is clinically unavoidable, in case of doubt it may be necessary to remove the tattoo with a laser before imaging.

Is an MRI harmful for my tattoo?

An MRI examination is not harmful for a tattoo. Apart from possible burns in the area of the tattoo, which however subside after a short time, no consequences for the tattoo are to be feared. An exception are freshly stung tattoos, where the cell healing is not yet complete.

Can I have an MRI with a fresh tattoo?

In case of a freshly stitched tattoo, an MRI examination should be avoided within the first six weeks if possible. The stinging causes damage to superficial cells and destruction of cell-cell contacts. As a consequence, it is possible that freshly stung colors can still run through the magnetic field. In addition, there is a greater risk of burns in fresh tattoos.