Metallic microbeads for hair extensions: Hidden dangers for magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract

Metallic foreign objects can cause various thermal injuries in patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We present a case of a 33-year-old woman with numerous metallic microbeads on her head used for attaching hair extensions, who required MRI of her cervical spine under anesthesia. Due to the nature of how these microbeads were attached, as well as the quantity and configuration, these objects were determined to be a significant risk, especially for a patient requiring anesthesia for their scan. To our knowledge, this is the first report in literature of a patient presenting with such objects for MRI. Awareness of the implications of these microbeads on patient safety and recognizing the importance of a thorough safety screening process can enhance care for patients requiring MRI.

Keywords

• Thermal injury
• Magnetic resonance imaging
• Microbeads