Dexter’s Magnet Design Makes Implanted Medical Devices MRI-Safe
Dexter Magnet Design Makes Implanted Medical Devices MRI-Safe
For patients with implanted medical devices, undergoing an MRI scan has long posed a serious risk. Thankfully, advancements have led to the creation of devices that are MRI Safe, reducing the risk significantly. Fixed magnets in implanted systems can twist or shift in response to an MRI’s powerful magnetic field, causing pain, device malfunction, or even requiring surgical intervention.
But that may be about to change.
At Dexter Magnetic Technologies, we’ve developed a revolutionary spherical magnet design that can dramatically improve MRI safety for patients with magnet-equipped implanted devices, eliminating the need for magnet removal or surgical procedures.
The Problem: MRI and Fixed Magnet Implanted Medical Devices Don’t Mix
Traditional implanted devices often use fixed magnets that react dangerously during MRI scans. The intense magnetic fields can create torque, forcing the magnet to twist inside the body, risking patient safety and damaging the device. This is why many such implants are labeled as “MR unsafe,” making MRI imaging either inaccessible or dependent on surgical removal of the magnet.
This torque isn’t just uncomfortable; it can deform the implant or even reverse the magnet’s polarity, leading to system failure.
The Solution: A Self-Aligning Magnet System
Our spherical magnet, enclosed in a non-magnetic housing and paired with a magnetic anchor plate, is designed to freely rotate and self-align with the MRI scanner’s magnetic field. This three-dimensional freedom of movement prevents the painful torque that fixed magnets experience.
Once the scan is complete, the spherical magnet naturally reorients close to its original position, guided by its magnetic interaction with the anchor plate. This occurs with a high degree of accuracy, within 8 degrees of the original orientation in most cases.
Smart Design, Proven Performance
Prototype testing confirms the design’s performance:
- Self-realignment within 8 degrees of the original orientation
- Retention of over 99% magnetic strength post-MRI
These results show that MRI exposure does not significantly compromise our magnet’s function, maintaining strong and consistent performance.
Restoring Orientation with a Simple Tool
In rare cases where the magnet flips by 180 degrees during a scan, an external homing magnet can gently restore its original orientation. This procedure is simple, quick, and entirely non-invasive.
This flexibility could eliminate the need for post-scan surgical repositioning, making MRI scans safer and more accessible for a wide range of patients.
Broader Potential for MRI Safe Devices
This self-aligning magnet design isn’t limited to one type of implant. It can be adapted to various medical devices that use magnets for sensing, positioning, or actuation—broadening its impact across the industry.
By converting previously “MR unsafe” systems into “MR conditional” ones, this innovation opens the door to safer imaging protocols and faster regulatory approval.
Let’s Build the Future of MRI-Compatible Implanted Medical Devices Together
Looking to make your implantable system MRI-compatible without compromising performance?
👉 Contact Our Medical Solutions Team: https://www.dextermag.com/request-a-quote/
📩 Or email us at: [email protected]