Ports and MRI Scanning

MRI scanning is a commonly used diagnostic procedure that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves which are reconstructed into computerized images. The computerized images are susceptible to distortion by certain metal-containing objects. Many implantable ports are constructed of metal. Titanium and stainless steel ports produce high levels of artifacts on CT scan and MRI images. Polysulfone ports cause virtually no imaging artifacts in CT or MRI images.

It is recommended that implantable ports composed of metal not be exposed to the magnetic field. Thus, it is important that the patient be aware of the type of port implanted.