Risk assessment of copper-containing contraceptives: the impact for women with implanted intrauterine devices during clinical MRI and CT examinations

ObjectivesTo assess the risks for implant users with copper-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs) during MR and CT examinations.MethodsA tissue-mimicking phantom suitable for all experiments within this study was developed. Seven different types of copper IUDs were evaluated. Heating and dislocation of each IUD were investigated at two clinically relevant positions in 1.5T and 3T MR scanners. Artifacts in the field of view caused by each tested IUD were determined for clinical MR and CT imaging.ResultsNo significant heating of any tested IUD was detected during MR measurements. The temperature increase was less than 0.6K for all IUDs. Neither angular deflection nor translation of any IUD was detected. Artifacts in MR images were limited to the very vicinity of the IUDs except for one IUD containing a steel-visualizing element. Streaking artifacts in CT were severe (up to 75.5%) in the slices including the IUD.ConclusionNo significant risk possibly harming the patient was determined during this phantom study, deeming MR examinations safe for women with an implanted copper IUD. Image quality was more impaired for CT than for MR imaging and needs careful consideration during diagnosis.Key Points center dot Risk assessment of copper-containing IUDs with regard to heating, dislocation, and artifacts during MR and CT imaging.center dot Neither significant heating nor dislocation was determined in MR; image quality was more impaired for CT than for MR imaging and needs careful consideration during diagnosis.center dot The tested IUDs pose no additional risks for implant users during MR and CT examinations.