MRI artefact in the rectum caused by ingested orthodontic brackets.

ABSTRACT

Magnetic susceptibility artefacts, caused by metallic objects, present a challenge in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this case, MRI showed metal-induced artefact in the rectum of a 14-year-old girl who presented with pain in the coccyx after a snowboarding accident. Previous radiographs showed no evidence of metal in the area. After the identification of the artefact and upon discussion with the patient, she disclosed that two orthodontic brackets had been swallowed two days prior to the MRI examination, likely the source of artefact. Following the passage of the brackets, subsequent MRI was artefact-free. A similar artefact was recreated by scanning a potato with and without an orthodontic bracket, highlighting the impact of the resulting artefact on MRI.