Dimensions and Forms of Artefacts in 1.5T and 3T MRI Caused by Cochlear Implants
Abstract Introduction:Cochlear implantation is a standard treatment option due to expanding indicationsCranial magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) has become a widespread diagnostic tool. Therefore, an increased number of cochlear implant (CI) users are undergoing cMRI scans.This study aimed to investigate the issue of the CI magnet impacting MRI quality and artifacts.Material and Methods:1.5T and 3T MRI scans with 4 defined sequences (T2-TSE, T2-TIRM, T1-3D-MPRAGE, and TDI) were performed on a phantom with a CI (Synchrony® System by MEDEL Austria®) in place. The resulting MRI artifacts were retrospectively compared to MRI artifacts observed in patients with a CI. All images were transferred to Amira® and visualized by manual segmentation.Results:Usable image quality was achieved in three sequences(T2-TSE, T2-TIRM and T1-mprage). Observed artifacts differed in shape and size depending on the sequence. Maximum diameters of fully extinguished areas ranged from 58x108x98 mm to 127x123x153 mm. Image distortions were larger.Conclusion:MRI artifacts caused by the Synchrony® system are asymmetric with varying shape, depending on the sequence. The phantom artefacts are similar to those in CI users. Considering the observed asymmetry, the hypothesis of varying implantation locations resulting in varying positions of the signal void area needs to be further investigated.