A doctor needs a comprehensive scan of a patient’s tissues which include the brain, spinal cord and muscles. The 89-year-old patient suffered a heart blockage decades ago and had a nickel-based cardiovascular stent implanted. Based on their medical history, which of the following body scans would be least ideal? (Hint: Think of attractive and repulsive forces that affect metals.)

• A. DEXA Scan
• B. CT Scan
• C. Spinal Fusion
• D. MRI Scan

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nature of the patient's implanted device — a nickel-based cardiovascular stent. Nickel is a metal that is ferromagnetic, meaning it can be influenced by magnetic fields.
2. Step 2: Review the types of scans listed: DEXA Scan (uses low-dose X-rays), CT Scan (uses X-rays and computer processing), Spinal Fusion (a surgical procedure, not a scan), and MRI Scan (uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves).
3. Step 3: Recognize that MRI scans involve strong magnetic fields which can interact with ferromagnetic metals like nickel, potentially causing movement or heating of the metal implant, posing a risk to the patient.
4. Step 4: Compare the safety and compatibility of each scan type with metal implants. DEXA and CT scans use radiation and do not involve magnetic fields, so they are generally safer for patients with metal implants.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the MRI scan would be the least ideal choice for this patient due to the magnetic forces acting on the nickel-based stent, which could lead to complications.