Brain Imaging & Metal Implants: Risks & Alternatives

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnets to create images of the body. The magnetic field can interfere with the metal plate, causing it to heat up or move. This can be dangerous for the person with the metal plate.

Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-rays to create images of the body. The X-rays can be absorbed by the metal plate, resulting in poor-quality images.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain. The magnetic pulses can be focused on a specific area of the brain, allowing doctors to study how different parts of the brain function. TMS should not be used on people with metal plates in their heads because the magnetic field can cause the plate to heat up or move, which could damage the brain.