A comparative study of MR imaging profile of titanium pedicle screws

Objective: We compared the MR imaging profile of three different types of titanium pedicle screw implants in common usage in a human cadaveric model. We additionally compared the change in temperature during imaging among three constructs. Material and Methods. Titanium-based lumbar pedicle screw/rod constructs from three manufacturers were implanted sequentially in a human cadaveric spine. MR imaging was then performed using both conventional spin-echo sequences and advanced imaging pulse sequences. Changes in tissue temperature were also measured during imaging to assess differences among the various implants. MR images were compared in a blinded fashion by two neuroradiologists. Results: No significant differences in imaging profile were noted between the three types of titanium implants with regards to their MR artifact profile. Fast spin-echo sequences led to a decrease in perceptible MR artifacts. Moreover, there were no significant differences in temperature increase among the three manufacturers (mean increase 0.5 degreesC) during imaging. Conclusion: Slight differences in the percentage of titanium among the three pedicle screw systems does not appear to result in artifact differences during MR imaging. Therefore, with regard to imaging profile considerations, the three systems studied should be considered interchangeable.