Artifacts on Magnetic Resonance Imaging from Electronic Identification Enablement in Silicone Gel Implants Are Not Negligible

Abstract

Summary: Breast implants filled with silicone gel are used worldwide for cosmetic reasons, or breast reconstruction following risk-reducing or therapeutic mastectomy. The importance of identifiable implants is undeniable. A recent development has been the labeling of the implants with a radio-frequency device micro responder chip (RFID). We examined a patient with silicone implants containing RFID chips with magnetic resonance imaging and were surprised by the artifacts caused by the RFID chip. We raise the question if the benefits of RFID-labeled silicone implants outweigh the drawbacks of magnetic resonance artifacts caused by the RFID chip itself.

Analysis of Artifacts on MRI from Electronic Identification Enablement in Silicone Gel Implants

“…We read with interest the article by Kurz et al, 1 in which they express their concerns regarding the balance between the benefits and drawbacks of radio frequency identification device (RFID)-enabled breast implants. As indicated, this technology represents a higher level of traceability.…”

Is the Impact Breast Implants with RFID Have on MRI Quality Investigated Thoroughly Enough?

“…We thank professor Munhoz for his comment on our case presentation “Artifacts on Magnetic Resonance Imaging from Electronic Identification Enablement in Silicone Gel Implants Are Not Negligible.” 1,2 We entirely agree that traceability of implants is needed; however, we are, for several reasons, not convinced that the solution with a magnetic radiofrequency identification device (RFID) placed in the dorsal capsule of the silicone implant is beneficial for the patients. We would like to list some of our concerns below.…”

“…• As we both state, artifact reduction strategies in MRI are well known. 1,2 Not all these possibilities are applicable if dynamic MRI is planned. Dynamic MRI is used routinely for MRI of breast cancer in large parts of the world.…”

No Diagnostic Concerns With Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Breast Cancer and Breast Implants

“…2 In addition, breast implants that have magnetic metal-containing radiofrequency identification device (RFID) have been shown to produce imaging artifacts up to 8 cm from the RFID. 3 Large artifacts involving nonbreast tissues are believed to be caused by the RFID chip. 3 Furthermore, breast tissue expanders with intrinsic valves or infusion ports, currently considered a contraindication to MRI, may interfere with the magnetic field and lead to artifacts.…”

“…3 Large artifacts involving nonbreast tissues are believed to be caused by the RFID chip. 3 Furthermore, breast tissue expanders with intrinsic valves or infusion ports, currently considered a contraindication to MRI, may interfere with the magnetic field and lead to artifacts. 4 Manisty et al also argue that several thousand CMRs have been performed without published reports of artifacts, therefore ruling out the possibility of artifacts.…”