MRI Scan.


All

I have been advised that I require the above for a Paragangioma of the neck. I am still waiting to hear from my Cardiologist as to whether it is ok to have this procedure. It has always been my undrstanding that having a PM stopped you getting an MRI Scan. My PM is a Metronic Sensia SEDR01 if anyone could give me any information on the subject, it would be very much appreciated.

2 Comments

Me, too!

by golden_snitch - 2013-05-23 09:05:30

Hi!

I have recently been told by my EP professor (who works at a large heart centre) that I can have an MRI, even though I do not have one of those new MRI-safe pacemakers. He said that there has been a lot of fearmongering regarding implanted cardiac devices and MRIs, but in his and his centers experience patients like us can safely undergo an MRI. There are certain precautions to be taken: I think they check the pacer before and program it into a different mode, then monitor your ECG and oxygen during the procedure, and test the pacermaker/reprogram it afterwards again. I have done some research on this, and it seems that there's quite a lot of data out there to support what my EP told me. There's for instance one large study from John's Hopkins which you can find at:
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/media/releases/hopkins_study_finds_mri_tests_safe_for_people_with_implanted_cardiac_devices_when_certain_guidelines_are_followed

What my EP wants to take a look at is my reconstructed superior vena cava. He wanted to discuss this with the head of radiology, because he wasn't sure, if the MRI provides the best pictures or if a CT with contrast dye is probably better. I haven't heard back from him, yet. But what's important: The question in my case is not whether it's safe to have the MRI, but rather which imaging study will provide the best pictures. My pacemaker is a Sorin Reply, and I have two epicardial leads, and one old transvenous lead.

Good luck!
Inga

MRI .

by westies2803 - 2013-05-23 09:05:45


Hi Inga

Many thanks for your reply, great information from the link posted.

I have been for the CT with contrasts, however the information required need the details that can be gained from MRI imaging.

Take care.
Joe

You know you're wired when...

You trust technology more than your heart.

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