The examination spectrum
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
Claustrophobia and overweight
Contraindications and risks
Clinical studies on Upright MRI
Upright MRI case studies
Reimbursement for SHI patients

There are some contraindications and risks for an MRI examination, which we have described below. If you have any further questions, please contact the medical center of your choice directly.


Contraindications and risks in detail
Since MRI uses strong magnetic fields, an examination must not be performed if:

  • The patient wears a cardiac pacemaker, as this can be disturbed or rendered inoperable by the magnetic field.
  • Artificial heart valves are present. (Some valve models are MRI compatible, please check with your surgeon).
  • The patient is wearing a cardio defibrillator (ICD).
  • An inner ear implant (cochlear implant = hearing prosthesis for the deaf) is present. If necessary, ask the manufacturer or surgeon about magnetic field compatibility.
  • A fixed implanted analgesic pump is present – external pumps must be discarded for examination.
  • Patients have a specific ventricular shunt or wear a neurostimulator or insulin pump.
  • In case of metal splinters in the eye.
  • patients wear a magnetically fixed denture (if this denture cannot be removed).
  • patients in the first third of pregnancy. (Although a harmful effect on the fetus has not yet been proven, an examination should only be performed in exceptional cases and for a vital reason. The administration of a contrast agent is always avoided during pregnancy except in life-threatening situations).


When should the radiologist be consulted urgently before MRI?

  • For dentures with magnetic holder – most dentures are non-magnetic and therefore not problematic.
  • For bypass vessels with magnetic holders – most are non-magnetic and therefore not problematic.
  • In case of metal splinters in the body near organs, vessels or nerves.

It is necessary to ask the surgeon in case of:

  • Cochlear implants.
  • Aneurysm clips in the head.

The examination can be problematic in the case of:

  • Pregnant patients even after the first trimester of pregnancy. Here, the need for an MRI examination must be carefully reviewed.

No barriers to an MRI scan are:

  • Joint prostheses.
  • Vascular stents.
  • Wire cerclages (e.g. after heart surgery).