Implanted Cardiac Devices Pass an MRI Test

Conventional pacemakers (PPM) and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) were thought to be an absolute contraindication to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, case reports began to accumulate about inadvertent MRI scans of individuals with devices, without any harm. To systematically explore this possibility, the MagnaSafe Registry, which had partial industry funding, began in 2009 to prospectively enroll patients with non–MRI-conditional devices who clinically needed MRI. Only nonthoracic scans at 1.5 tesla were allowed. In addition, the study had a strict protocol for appropriate programming, including DOO/VOO pacing in pacer-dependent patients with PPMs and inactivation of ICD therapies.

The registry included 1000 MRI scan…