MR Safe is a classification applied to an object, device, or implant that presents no known hazards in any magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment. The designation indicates that the item poses no magnetic attraction, heating risk, or other MRI-related hazard regardless of the field strength or scanning conditions.
MR Safe is one of three standard MRI safety classifications. MR Safe items include non-metallic objects made of plastic, glass, or non-conductive composites that have no interaction with the MRI magnetic field. MR Conditional items are safe only under specific conditions defined in the device labelling (such as particular field strengths or scanning parameters). MR Unsafe items pose unacceptable risks in any MRI environment and must not enter the scanner room.
For patients with cardiac implants, the MR classification of their device is critically important. Many modern pacemakers and ICDs are now manufactured and tested as ‘MR Conditional’, meaning MRI can be safely performed under specific conditions, coordinated with the cardiac device team. The presence of an MR Unsafe or untested device is a contraindication to MRI. Patients should always inform any healthcare provider requesting an MRI about their implant, and carry their device identification card showing the manufacturer, model number, and MR safety classification.
For detailed information on MRI safety classifications for cardiac devices, see MR Conditional/Unsafe.
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