There are many things to consider when picking out a tattoo, and the pros and cons of a tattoo on your body might not always be obvious. In this article, we’re going to focus on complications that happen during MRIs because they can cause an interruption in the MRI process.
If you have a tattoo, it may interfere with your MRI scans. MRIs use strong magnetic fields and some tattoos contain metallic elements that could create interference with the scan. If you have a tattoo and are scheduled for an MRI, ask your doctor if you can have the scan done at another time.
Facts About MRIs
A tattoo may interfere with your MRI scans, depending on where it is located. MRIs use a large magnetic field to create images of the inside of your body. If the tattoo is close to any sensitive areas on your body, like the organs or bones, it could potentially cause interference and make it difficult for the machine to get an accurate image. If you have any questions about whether or not a particular tattoo may interfere with your MRI scans, talk to your doctor or radiologist beforehand.
Ways to fix the issue
If you have tattoos, beware: When you go for an MRI, the machine may not be able to image them correctly. The problem is that tattoos interrupt the flow of blood and lymph vessels in the skin. This can cause images to be blurry or distorted. There are ways to fix this issue, but it requires some planning and preparation on your part.
Here are some tips to help optimize your MRI experience:
Make sure that all of your tattoos are properly cleaned and covered with a sterile adhesive prior to your MRI scan. Carefully remove any tattoos that extend beyond the area being scanned and make sure they are completely dry before applying the adhesive. Applying the adhesive too soon after a tattoo has been applied can cause it to peel off during the MRI scan.
Final thoughts
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to tattoos and MRI scans. For one, the ink may show up on the imaging device and cause problems. Secondly, if the tattoo is close to any important organs or nerves, it could cause interference or even damage. But fortunately, there are ways to fix these issues.
If the ink shows up on the MRI machine, there are several things that can be done. First, it can be cleaned using mild detergent and warm water. Second, a white cloth can be placed over the tattoo before the scan is taken so that any stray ink doesn’t show up on the image. Finally, if necessary, image enhancement software can be used to remove any unwanted marks.
If the tattoo is close to any vital organs or nerves, it could cause interference or even damage. But fortunately, there are ways to fix these issues. If the ink is close to a nerve, for example, an injection of numbing agent may need to be given before the scan can be done. Alternatively, a surgical procedure called “subcutaneous dissection” may be needed in order to remove the tattoo without causing any damage.
