MRI and tattoos - what you need to consider!

introduction

In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging takes place with the help of a strong magnetic field. The magnetic flux density is up to 3 Tesla. Atomic nuclei in the body are aligned along the magnetic field lines. Older tattoo inks in particular contain magnetically active ingredients (above all iron), which are also influenced by the magnetic field and may also interfere with the imaging. In rare cases, this can lead to complications for the patient.

Can I do an MRI with a tattoo?

An MRI imaging is done with tattoos possibleHowever, various aspects should be discussed with the treating radiologist before the examination. The patient should tell the doctor about that Ingredients of the tattoo inks to inform. The ones in Germany since the 1990s The tattoo inks used usually contain few or no magnetic ingredients and are suitable for MRI.
In addition, the location and size of the tattoo are decisive for whether an MRI examination is possible and useful. With tattoos in the area of ​​the body to be examined it can be Imaging disorders and the result is a lower resolution of the MRT image. The same effects can also be seen with particularly large tattoos in the area of ​​the body to be examined.

You can also read more about the general here Procedure of an MRI.

What is the risk of burns?

Due to the alignment of the magnetic contents of the tattoos, it can become too during an MRI examination Skin burns come. It refers to superficial first degree burnswhich only cover the epidermis (epidermis) affect.

Further information can be found on our website Degrees of combustion.

A burn from an MRI scan is however very rarely. This is because all risk factors are discussed with the doctor to be treated before the examination. In addition, the patient receives a push button during the examination, which he can press at any time as soon as he feels warm or the first signs of a burn. This will start the investigation canceledbefore a first degree burn can occur. A warming of the skin or a burn develops only slowly during the examination, whereby a timely reaction of the patient can be guaranteed.

Burns can also occur when performing an MRI with piercings.

Read more about the topic here: MRI and piercings

Which colors cause problems in the MRI?

The ingredients of tattoo inks have changed a lot in the last few decades. While 20-30 years ago magnetic ingredients (Iron carbonates, iron hydroxide, iron oxide) were used since the 1990s Increasingly careful not to use these ingredients. Nevertheless, the use of magnetic substances is not prohibited.
So you can still find (albeit in very small quantities) magnetic substances in the tattoo inks - iron hydroxide and iron carbonate in white color, Iron oxide in red color and iron ammonium ferrocyanide in blue color. Colors that are common problems in an MRI scan are red, white and black.

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

The influence of a tattoo on image quality is depending on the location of the tattoo. For example, a tattoo on the upper arm is usually not a problem for an MRI scan of the knee. However, lies the tattoo in the area of ​​the body to be examined, there may be interference with the imaging. Examination results can be massively influenced and in some cases significantly lose their resolution. An overlay of the relevant image by the tattoo is also possible.

Another crucial factor is that Size of the tattoo, the intensity and the Color direction the colors used. Especially large tattoos with magnetic ingredients can have a major impact on imaging.
When an MRI scan is clinical inevitable is, in case of doubt a Removal of the tattoo with a laser may be needed prior to imaging.

Read more on the subject here Tattoo Removal- The best methods of tattoo removal.

Is an MRI harmful to my tattoo?

An MRI scan is for a tattoo not harmful. Apart from possible burns in the area of ​​the tattoo, which will subside after a short time, there are no consequences for the tattoo to be feared. Make an exception freshly made tattoos in which cell healing is not yet complete.

Can I do an MRI with a fresh tattoo?

A freshly made tattoo should go to an MRI scan within the first six weeks be waived if possible. The stinging damages superficial cells and destroys cell-cell contacts. As a result, it is possible that freshly engraved colors are still due to the magnetic field can run.
There is also a greater risk of burns with fresh tattoos.