Diagnostic Radiologist Questions Radiologist

Will I need to remove any jewelry or metal objects before my imaging test?

I will have a CT scan. Will I need to remove any jewelry or metal objects before my imaging test?

4 Answers

DiagnosticRadiologistRadiologist
Yes, remove any jewelry or metal objects before any imaging. They can appear in the CT scan and interfere with the imaging process. Furthermore, you do not want to lose your valuables so leave them at home.
Yes, you will need to remove all jewelry and metal objects before your CT scan. Metal can interfere with the imaging, causing artifacts that may affect the clarity of the results. This includes earrings, necklaces, rings, piercings, watches, hairpins, and removable dental work. If you have metal implants, inform the technician beforehand, as they may need to adjust the scan settings.
For a CT scan it depends on the location of the scan. If the jewelry will be in the way, then yes. If you need an MRI you will need to remove anything that is metal and let the technician know if you have any medal implants or objects. The technician will let you know at the time of the scan if you need to remove anything. I would suggest any time you go for a test or procedure leave any valuables at home, so you have less to worry about.
Yes, for a CT scan, you will typically need to remove any jewelry or metal objects from the area being scanned. Metal can create artifacts on the images, which may interfere with the clarity of the results.

What to remove:
• Necklaces, earrings, and body piercings
• Watches, rings, and bracelets (if near the scan area)
• Hairpins, clips, or wigs with metal
• Dentures with metal parts
• Glasses (if scanning the head or face)
• Underwire bras (if scanning the chest or abdomen)

If you have any implanted medical devices (such as pacemakers, metal implants, or surgical clips), let your healthcare provider or imaging technologist know before the scan. These may not need to be removed but should be noted.