MRI Ferromagnetic Contraindication — FRCA Final MCQ

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EasyAnaesthetic Equipment & SafetyMRI Ferromagnetic ContraindicationFRCA Final

A 42-year-old woman (ASA I) is having an MRI scan under general anaesthesia for claustrophobia. Which piece of anaesthetic equipment is absolutely contraindicated in the MRI scanner room (zone 4)?

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Correct answer: D — Standard ferromagnetic anaesthetic machine or laryngoscope

Standard anaesthetic machines and ferromagnetic laryngoscopes are ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED in the MRI scanner room (zone 4) due to the powerful static magnetic field (typically 1.5-3T). Ferromagnetic objects become high-velocity projectiles ('the missile effect'), posing lethal risk to the patient and staff. Only MRI-conditional equipment (specifically tested and labelled safe for the particular field strength) may enter zone 4. This includes MRI-compatible anaesthetic machines, monitors, laryngoscopes, and infusion pumps. All items must be checked before entry.

Reference: AAGBI – 2019 – Safety in MRI units; RCOA – 2023 – Anaesthesia for MRI