An unusual burn during routine magnetic resonance imaging

J Burn Care Res. 2013 Mar-Apr;34(2):e110-1. doi: 10.1097/BCR.0b013e3182642a40.

Abstract

Burn injuries are known to occur from magnetic resonance imaging. Prevention efforts focus on avoiding internal and external metallic objects from contacting the patient's tissue during image acquisition. Despite rigorous screening, however, there is a subset of thermal injuries that can occur through the formation of closed loops of current within the patient. This case report describes an example of this uncommon type of injury as well as a successful, nonoperative management approach. Given the frequent use of magnetic resonance imaging, we report this rare case to raise awareness of this mechanism of injury and its treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Arm Injuries / etiology*
  • Arm Injuries / therapy*
  • Burns / etiology*
  • Burns / therapy*
  • Finger Injuries / etiology*
  • Finger Injuries / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / adverse effects*
  • Male