Man gets sucked in MRI machine due to his metallic chain: Precautions one should take while going for ultrasound, X-Ray, MRI and CT scan

Time of India

a day ago

MRI Scan machineRepresentative image
Sometimes life is stranger than fiction and a recent incident wherein a man lost his life due to a medical mishap is one such incident. According to reports, in a bizarre turn of events, a man died after he was sucked into an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine due to a metallic chain he was wearing while he was at a medical facility in Westbury, on New York's Long Island.
The tragic incident happened when the man entered the MRI room without permission, while his wife was undergoing a knee scan. According to a statement by the Nassau County Police Department, reported by BBC, the man walked into the MRI room without permission while still wearing a heavy metal chain around his neck. The powerful magnetic force of the MRI machine pulled him in, leading to his sudden death.
The victim's wife, Adrienne Jones-McAllister, explained that she had asked her husband to come inside and help her get up after her MRI knee scan.
Unfortunately, he was wearing a 9-kilogram metal chain with a lock, commonly used for weight training, which triggered the tragic accident.
Adrienne emotionally shared with CNN, 'At that instant, the machine switched him around, pulled him in, and he hit the MRI.' She added, 'He went limp in my arms.' Despite desperate efforts by the MRI technician to pull him away, the powerful magnetic force was too strong. Adrienne recalled pleading, 'Could you turn off the machine? Call 911. Do something. Turn this damn thing off!'
This heartbreaking event highlights the extreme dangers of bringing metal objects into MRI rooms. Here we list some precautions you should take before undergoing ultrasound, X-Ray, MRI, and CT scan:
1. Precautions to take before undergoing ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs. It is considered very safe as it does not involve radiation. However, there are still basic precautions to follow:
- Follow fasting instructions: For abdominal ultrasounds, doctors often recommend fasting for 6-8 hours.
This reduces gas in the intestines, giving clearer images.
- Full bladder requirement: For pelvic or pregnancy ultrasounds, a full bladder may be required to enhance image quality. Follow your doctor's guidance about drinking water before the test.
- Avoid lotions or creams: Do not apply lotions or powders on the area being examined, as they can interfere with the ultrasound waves.
2. X-Ray precautions
X-rays use a small amount of ionizing radiation to capture images of bones and organs.
The exposure is minimal but requires care.
- Inform if pregnant: X-rays are generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as radiation can affect the fetus.
- Remove metal objects: Metallic items like jewellery, belts, or clothing with zippers should be removed before undergoing an X-Ray as metal can distort the image.
- Minimal exposure: Always ensure the procedure is justified by a doctor to avoid unnecessary exposure to harmful radiation.
3. MRI precautions
MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images. Though it doesn't use radiation, it comes with its own risks.
- Metal screening: Remove all metal objects. People with pacemakers, cochlear implants, or certain metal implants must inform the technician, as the magnetic field can interfere with these devices.
- Claustrophobia onsideration: MRI machines are enclosed spaces.
And so, if you have claustrophobia, do inform your doctor and technician before hand. In such cases, sedation or open MRI options may be considered.
- Stay still: Movement can blur images, so staying completely still is crucial for accurate results.
4. CT scan precautions
CT scans use X-rays to produce cross-sectional images and involve higher radiation doses than standard X-rays.
- Contrast dye allergy: Inform your doctor if you have allergies, especially to iodine-based dyes, which are often used in CT scans.
- Hydrate well: Drink plenty of water before and after the scan to help flush out contrast dye.
- Avoid if you are pregnant: Like X-rays, CT scans are avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely essential.