Conductive elements in implantable device degrade MR image quality

A pessary is a small medical device or form of pharmaceutical preparation that is inserted into the vagina or rectum and held in place by the pelvic floor musculature. In some instances, a pessary may contain metal that allows it to be shaped to facilitate proper retention.

Typically, the pessary is a firm ring or similar structure that presses against the wall of the vagina and urethra to help reduce urinary leakage or another condition. It is an effective nonsurgical means of managing a number of gynecologic problems. Indications for the pessary include pelvic support defects such as uterine prolapse and vaginal prolapse, as well as stress urinary incontinence.

MRI information

A wide variety of pessary styles exist, including those made entirely from nonmetallic, nonconducting materials (e.g., plastic, silicone, or latex) as well as those that have metallic components. Obviously, those pessaries made from nonmetallic, nonconducting materials pose no problems for patients undergoing MRI procedures.

However, pessaries that have metallic components will cause substantial artifacts, as shown in Figure 1. To date, there are no reports of injuries or other issues related to performing MRI in patients with these devices.

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Frank G. Shellock, Ph.D., is an adjunct clinical professor of radiology and medicine at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. He is also the director of MRI studies at the Biomimetic Microelectronic Systems, National Science Foundation - Engineering Research Center, USC, the founder of the Institute for Magnetic Resonance Safety, Education, and Research (www.imrser.org), and president of Shellock R&D Services.