While under going MRI

[eye29_help]

I have back pain and need to do MRI. Is there is something in MRI cause/harm in eye? Do i need to close my eye during MRI?

Thanks for your help

[Joan M Pernoud, MD]

Harold,

You are correct.

Metal in the eye could be slightly "pulled" by the MRI field.
Only under unusual circumstances would that actually cause a problem, however.

Thankfully metal in the eye is unusual but the MRI technician ordinarily asks the patient if there is metal anywhere in the body before they perform the test.

[Harold14370]

One exception might be if you happen to have a metal shaving embedded in your eye. I know a fellow who had to have an x-ray once before an MRI to make sure there was no metal because he once had some drill shavings or something get in his eye.

This is strictly a non-professional opinion, but am I right, Doc?

By the way, closing your eye will not do any good. The magnetic field will not be affected by your eyelid.

[Joan M Pernoud, MD]

MRI will not harm your eyes.

J Pernoud MD