A tragic incident occurred during a routine MRI exam that led to the death of a young boy. Michael Colombini, aged six, sustained fatal injuries when a metal oxygen tank was propelled by the MRI machine’s strong magnetic field, striking and causing severe head trauma. Despite efforts, Michael succumbed to his injuries two days after the accident.
The MRI scan followed Michael’s surgery for a noncancerous brain tumor, and he was sedated during the procedure. The incident took place at Westchester Medical Center, situated north of New York City in Valhalla. The medical center’s president, Edward Stolzenberg, expressed deep regret and took full responsibility for the tragic event.
MRI scanners are essential medical tools that create detailed internal body images using magnetic forces and radio waves. While generally safe, incidents like these are rare. Another fatal MRI accident in the U.S. resulted in the death of Keith McAllister, 61, who was pulled into the machine by his necklace at Nassau Open MRI in Westbury, Long Island.
Adrienne Jones-McAllister, Keith’s wife, recounted the devastating event, mentioning that despite safety protocols requiring the removal of jewelry, Keith was permitted to enter the MRI room wearing a heavy chain. She described the harrowing moment when the machine suddenly pulled her husband in, leading to his tragic demise despite rescue efforts.
This unfortunate incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols during MRI procedures to prevent such heartbreaking accidents.