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surgical pins affected by radio frequencies
Sent to Health Experts August 19 11:58 PM

How do radio frequencies affect surgically inserted titanium pins in the shoulder?

 

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Female , Age: 51

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August 20 12:29 AM (31 minutes and 45 seconds later)
         
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Radio frequency (RF) is transmitted through the titanium pins in your shoulder which are most likely insulated. Some radio frequency coils e.g. surface coils, can cause burns. Newer pins have a ceramic insulation which reduces or eliminates a burning sensation felt by patients during MRI's. Patients with metal fillings, shrapnel, or ferromagnetic clips or pins in their bodies cannot be imaged. These objects would be twisted and pulled into the magnetic field of the MRI which would cause serious injuries.


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August 20 12:35 AM (5 minutes and 40 seconds later)
         
Reply to Dr. Hanson's Post: I would like some more information from Dr. Hanson concerning muscle spasms that are reoccuring and severe whenever I am working backstage where there are a lot of RF microphones in use. The spasms are so severe that you can place your hand on my shoulder blade and feel them. I have three pins in my shoulder from multiple rotator cuff surgeries to correct an injury due to a fall. Is it reasonable to assume that the RF is causing this discomfort?
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August 20 2:07 AM (1 hour and 31 minutes and 34 seconds later)
         
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Electromagnetic emission in the range of radio frequencies can be detected using titanium alloys as pins for anchors during rotator stabilization; therefore, newer types of anchors are used e.g. biodegradable plastic or bone which blends in with the patient's natural bone usually in about 6 months.

I recommend you have your neurosurgeon examine your shoulder and possibly replace the titanium pins with something more appropriate.




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