What is the most common MRI-related injury?

The most common MRI-related injury is radio frequency burns. This type of injury occurs due to excessive heat generated by the radio frequency (RF) energy used in MRI scans. During an MRI, the RF pulses interact with the body, and if there are any conductive materials present, such as metal implants or wires, they can lead to localized heating. If this heating becomes significant, it may cause burns to the skin or underlying tissues.

In contrast, while other injuries such as soft tissue injuries, contrast reactions, and fractures are associated with MRI procedures, they are less prevalent. Soft tissue injuries can occur from improper positioning or movement during the scan but are not uniquely attributable to MRI technology itself. Contrast reactions, while serious, are specifically related to the administration of contrast agents and are not inherent to the MRI procedure itself. Lastly, fractures typically do not arise from the MRI process directly and are more related to the patient's condition rather than the imaging technique. Therefore, radio frequency burns stand out as the most common complication specifically linked to the MRI environment and procedure.