Development of an Magnetic Resonance Imaging Safety Management System for Metallic Biomedical Products Using an Magnetic Resonance Compatibility Database and Inquiry-based Patient Records

Several incidents involving magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations of patients with unchecked MR-unsafe metallic products have been reported. To improve patient safety, we developed a new MRI safety management system for metallic biomedical products and evaluated its efficiency in clinical practice. Our system was integrated into the picture archiving and communication system (PACS) and comprised an MR compatibility database and inquiry-based patient records of internal metallic biomedical products, enabling hospital staff to check MR compatibility by product name. A total of 6,637 biomedical implants and devices were listed in this system, including product names and their MR compatibilities. Furthermore, MRI histories for each patient at our hospital were also recorded. Using this system, it was possible to confirm the MR compatibility of the patients' metallic biomedical products effectively and to reduce the number of unchecked internal products through systematic patient inquiry. In conclusion, our new system enhanced metallic biomedical product checking procedures, and improved patient safety during clinical MRI examinations.