American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ABIM Certification Exam with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Strengthen understanding with flashcards, hints, and thorough review materials. Ace your test!

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Which type of metal implants makes MRI allowable in patients?

Copper
Titanium
Stainless steel
Lead

The correct answer is: Titanium

Titanium is widely regarded as the most suitable metal for implants that make MRI allowable in patients. This is primarily because titanium is non-ferromagnetic, meaning it does not possess magnetic properties that would interfere with MRI machines. As a result, titanium implants do not pose the same risks for movement or heating within the magnetic field of the MRI, which can lead to serious complications in patients with ferromagnetic materials. Additionally, titanium is known for its excellent biocompatibility, which means it can be accepted by the body with minimal inflammation or rejection. This makes it an ideal choice for a variety of medical implants, including orthopedic devices, dental implants, and vascular stents, all of which may require imaging studies like MRI for post-operative evaluations or monitoring. In contrast, other metals such as copper, stainless steel, and lead have varying magnetic properties and may not be safe for MRI. For instance, stainless steel can contain ferromagnetic components, which can create risks during MRI scanning. Therefore, titanium stands out as the safest option when considering metal implants that allow for MRI procedures.