MRI with Bone Growth Stimulator: Risks & Alternatives

An implanted bone growth stimulator (BGS) may be MRI-conditional, MRI-unsafe, or MRI-compatible depending on the specific device model and manufacturer.

Risk Assessment

• MRI-Unsafe (Older/Non-Conditional): Metal components can heat, move, or malfunction in the magnetic field → tissue damage, device failure, image artifacts.
• MRI-Conditional (Most Modern Implants): Safe only under strictly defined conditions: specific field strength (1.5T or 3T), SAR limits, coil type, positioning, and scan sequences. Must verify exact model parameters.
• MRI-Compatible (Non-Metallic): Rare; no restrictions.

Required Steps Before MRI

1. Identify Device: Get model/serial number from implant card, surgeon's operative note, or manufacturer registry.
2. Contact Manufacturer: Request MRI safety labeling (e.g., Orthofix, Biomet, DJO, Zimmer).
3. Consult Your Surgeon & Radiologist: They will review conditions and may contact manufacturer.
4. Inform MRI Technologist: Present device card; they will protocol the scan per conditions.

Alternative Imaging

• CT Scan: No magnetic field; excellent for bone healing assessment (fusion, callus).
• X-ray: First-line for alignment, hardware position, gross union.
• Ultrasound: Soft tissue, fluid collections; limited for bone.
• Nuclear Medicine (Bone Scan, SPECT/CT): Metabolic activity at fusion site.

Never assume safety. Always verify device-specific MRI conditions. If incompatible, CT is usually the preferred alternative for bony evaluation.