Case report: Radiofrequency-induced thermal burn injury in a dog after magnetic resonance imaging

Front. Vet. Sci., 2024 · DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1364635 · Published: May 13, 2024

Medical Imaging Veterinary Medicine Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

A 10-year-old Shar-Pei dog experienced burns after undergoing an MRI. The burns were determined to be caused by radiofrequency energy during the MRI, despite safety measures being in place. This is the first reported case of this kind in veterinary medicine, highlighting a potential risk that clinicians should be aware of. The dog was undergoing MRI to investigate lethargy and mobility issues. While the MRI successfully identified a spinal issue, burn wounds developed in the dog's armpits within a week of the procedure. These were treated conservatively and healed over a month. The study emphasizes the importance of careful patient positioning and monitoring during MRI scans to prevent similar incidents. Veterinary patients under anesthesia cannot report pain, making vigilance crucial. The paper suggests additional precautions based on human safety guidelines.

Study Duration

3 Months

Participants

One 10-year-old male Shar-Pei dog

Evidence Level

Level 4: Case Report

Key Findings

1
A Shar-Pei dog developed radiofrequency-induced thermal burns in both axillae following an MRI examination.
2
The specific absorption rate (SAR) did not exceed safety limits during the MRI scans, suggesting that the burns were likely caused by skin-to-skin contact in the axillae due to the dog's breed characteristics and positioning.
3
The case highlights a previously unreported complication of MRI in veterinary patients, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and preventative measures.

Research Summary

This case report describes a 10-year-old Shar-Pei dog that developed radiofrequency-induced thermal burns in both axillae following a routine MRI examination. The dog was undergoing MRI to investigate lethargy and proprioceptive deficits of the left thoracic limb. Despite the specific absorption rate (SAR) remaining within safety limits during the scans, the dog developed deep partial-thickness skin burns in its axillae within a week of the MRI. The burns were attributed to radiofrequency energy, likely due to skin-to-skin contact in the axillae. The case emphasizes the importance of vigilance and preventative measures during MRI procedures in veterinary patients, including careful patient positioning, monitoring, and consideration of breed-specific risks. The authors propose several considerations to reduce the risk of MRI-induced radiofrequency burns in veterinary patients.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Vigilance During MRI

Veterinarians and technicians should be more aware of the potential for RF burns in veterinary patients undergoing MRI.

Preventative Measures Implementation

Implement stricter protocols for patient positioning, padding, and monitoring during MRI to minimize skin-to-skin contact and other risk factors.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Pay special attention to breeds with skin folds, such as Shar-Peis, and take extra precautions to prevent RF burns.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to a single case report, which may not be generalizable to all dogs or MRI settings.
2
The exact mechanism of the burn injury could not be definitively determined, although skin-to-skin contact was suspected.
3
The lack of established SAR safety limits for animals makes it difficult to assess the risk of RF burns in veterinary patients.

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