MRI

Have a look at the attached link

by Gemita - 2024-05-11 15:12:44

Hello Gotrhythm,

Lovely to hear from you and I am sorry you are having such a difficult time getting an MRI. To answer your question, I have copied/typed some answers from a useful link, see below.  I usually get my EP to confirm in writing to other health professionals that I may safely have an MRI with my MRI conditional  pacemaker and leads.  Here in the UK, I have to go to a main hospital rather than to a local one to have an MRI since MRI staff in a larger hospital will have more experience working with pacemaker patients.  I too was recently refused an MRI at my local hospital.

Conditional and Non-Conditional Devices

No CIED can be termed “MRI Safe”. The term “MRI conditional” implies that MR scanning can take place without hazard if certain “conditions” are met. These conditions include:

Using makes and models of generator and leads (or a combination thereof) that have been designed, tested and confirmed to function safely in MRI.

No fractured, redundant or epicardial leads are present.

Appropriate checks (programming of device pre scan into a safe mode and restoring settings post scan) and all other safety protocol/patient monitoring must be followed during scanning by trained personnel.

Your device manufacturer holds records of which devices and leads (combinations thereof) have been given conditional status. They may also update information on historic leads so it is worth checking with the manufacturer if you require further information about your system.

The label ‘MRI non-conditional’ will apply to any system/combination that does not meet the criteria above. It should be noted it is usually safe to scan someone with an MR non-conditional device;  several studies have been performed without significant adverse events in non-conditional devices.  Heart Rhythm Society therefore recommends that MRI in non-conditional devices can take place following appropriate preparation (as long as no abandoned leads are present).

Please see the link below Gotrhythm for further information.  I hope it helps.  Stay safe and well.

https://www.britishcardiovascularsociety.org/resources/editorials/articles/magnetic-resonance-imaging-in-patients-with-cardiac-implantable-electronic-devices-current-recommendations

conditional

by Tracey_E - 2024-05-11 18:16:10

Practically, I think conditional means if the facility feels like dealing with it and is willing to take what they perceive as the risk. They've been safely doing them on all pacers in Europe for more than a decade. The US is behind on this one. 

Leads

by Grateful Heart - 2024-05-11 18:59:48

My leads are not MRI compatible even though my current device is and my EP said I cannot have an MRI.  CT Scans are ok.

Good luck Gotrhythm!

Grateful Heart

Insurance cover

by Penguin - 2024-05-12 06:35:58

Abbott have a technical support email for patients on their website. You may be able to obtain an email from them explaining whether or not you can have an MRI with your current PM / leads.  You could provide the email to the hospital - with Abbott's permission perhaps?  Sometimes an email from the manufacturer is sufficient to provide assurances.

MRI and pacemakers.

by Selwyn - 2024-05-14 11:30:09

Conditional or not conditional - if necessary you could still have a MRI scan ( my cardiologist has said this to me in the past). More care is needed. Gemita has also made that point in her bold printed pasted notes.