A 22-year-old woman experienced severe internal injuries during a routine MRI scan after failing to inform medical staff about a foreign object inside her body, according to a newly released report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The incident, which occurred in July 2023, highlights the possibly life-threatening risks associated with metal objects in the strong magnetic field of an MRI machine and underscores the critical need for complete transparency with healthcare providers. The woman,who survived the ordeal,was found to have an object containing metal drawn through her body during the scan.
Woman’s MRI Scan Turns Dangerous After Unreported Metal Object Causes Severe Injuries
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A 22-year-old woman in the United States suffered serious injuries during an MRI scan after failing to disclose the presence of a foreign object in her body, according to a recent report. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of full disclosure to medical professionals before undergoing magnetic resonance imaging.
The woman had inserted a sex toy, commonly known as a butt plug, into her rectum prior to the scan, believing it was made entirely of silicone and therefore safe for use during the procedure. However, the device contained a hidden metal component.
During the MRI, which utilizes a powerful magnetic field, the metal within the sex toy was immediately pulled with significant force. The object was drawn through the woman’s body, causing severe internal damage and ultimately traveling into her chest cavity. While she survived, the woman sustained substantial injuries.
Patient Failed to Disclose Information Before Scan, Report States
A report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services detailing the July 2023 incident revealed that the patient underwent pre-screening protocols but did not mention the presence of the object. After the scan was complete and staff were repositioning the bed, the woman began screaming in pain.
She reported experiencing nausea, intense pain, and a feeling of impending loss of consciousness. Medical personnel promptly provided treatment, and a radiologist conducted an initial assessment before referring her for further care.
MRI Scans and the Dangers of Metal Objects
MRI machines use strong magnetic fields to generate detailed images of the body’s internal structures. As a result, strict protocols are in place requiring patients and staff to remove all jewelry, metallic objects, and to disclose any potential metal-containing items before undergoing a scan. This is crucial for patient safety.
This incident is among a number of serious MRI-related accidents in recent years. Previously, a man was injured when a firearm he was carrying was discharged by the magnetic field.
In another tragic case last year, a 61-year-old man died after being pulled into an MRI machine while attempting to assist his wife, as he was wearing a heavy metallic necklace.
Experts Emphasize the Importance of Full Disclosure
Medical professionals are urging anyone scheduled for an MRI to be completely honest about any metal implants, foreign objects, or potential metallic items they may have, even if the information feels personal or embarrassing. Failing to disclose even seemingly minor details can have life-threatening consequences.
