Pacemaker and Mris

MRI scans and pacemakers

by Selwyn - 2017-06-10 17:00:14

My cardiologist tells me that they can do a MRI scan on you even if your PM is not of the MRI proof variety.  If just needs extra precautions.  

I have never had an MRI though have had numerous CTs ( the last 2 days ago) without problems.

The intake person knows nothing

by Gotrhythm - 2017-06-10 21:41:43

The person doing the MRI intake is just reading from the directions he or she has been given. 

Get a note from the doctor who inserted your pacemaker to the effect that you have an MRI compatible pacemaker. Demand to speak to the person who actually does the MRIs. Show that person the note.

MRI

by islandgirl - 2017-06-10 23:49:04

I couldn't go to an outpatient facility for an MRI--had to go to the hospital.  Medtronic rep had to put it in safe mode before and then put it back to the original setting afterwards.  

MRI compatability

by TBrous&Chip - 2017-06-11 06:48:45

Another example of the patient needing to be their own healthcare advocate.  If an MRI test is indicated convince the doctor to talk with your cardiologist and/or the PM device reps. Then your need and the risk can be discussed and evaluated by the professionals with you.   Then it should be your decision.

Non-cardiologist doctors may not be fully educated concerning the safety of a PM patient receiving an MRI.

mri

by Tracey_E - 2017-06-11 07:54:24

Your device is compatible, but as you learned, that doesn't mean you can go just anywhere. There is a protocol to follow and not all facilities are set up to deal with us. 

legal fear

by dwelch - 2017-06-12 18:21:21

It could be as simple as legal fear.  if they were to see 10 of you a day its no big deal, but maybe they see one pacer MRI patient every year or month or whatever and the easy out is not use the MRI.  Let someone else take the risk.  it could be that their procedures are based on 10-20 year old decisions.  Its not just MRIs and pacers, many meds and other procedures for pretty much any condition take a long time to filter down into the doctors office as something the insurance company and/or the practice allows as a med or treatment.

Even if you are, which you should be, an expert in you and your pacer and what it can do they may simply not be allowed because it is written down in their policies that they cannot.

Same problem even in London

by LondonAndy - 2017-06-13 08:25:50

I have an MRI compatible pacemaker too, and have been refused an MRI scan at a major London hospital even though my Cardiologist says he is the one who trained that hospital's MRI unit on the protocol for doing them!  I even sent them a full 4 page insertion spec document so that they had full details.  Am still trying though.