Can patients with magnetic growth rods safely undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): a preliminary in vitro study

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: The management of early-onset paediatric deformity has been revolutionised by the development of adjustable growth rods. These rods elongate when an internal rare-earth magnet is triggered to rotate by an externally applied magnetic field. This patient group includes some who occasionally require further magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neuroaxis, and given the magnetic properties of the rod, this is conventionally contraindicated once implanted.