MRI scans/thymectomy in the 1980s
Hi,
I have MG and was diagnosed with it in 1984 at the age of 15. I had a thymectomy in 1985 which worked wonders and had an immediate positive effect.
Now over 40 years later i have to have a brain scan - an MRI - which is unconnected with MG. My question is has anyone else had an MRI after having a thymectomy? There is a lot of metal in my chest now and i don't know what kind of metal it is !
I have spoken to a radiologist today who thought it should be fine - but neither he nor i know what metal waa used and i am concerned about going ahead with it.
without knowing what was used to close your sternum many years ago, it isn’t possible for us to say with certainty if it is safe. Based on some general online research I found that nonferromagnetic stainless steel has been the most commonly used closure for decades which according to various online sites is safe for most MRI studies https://mriquestions.com/sternal-wiresimplants.html. I would refer to your radiologist in this case, as you have done. I hope everything goes well with your scan. If you’re comfortable, please let us know how you’re doing. All my best, Julie (team member)
