Cardiology Patient Page. Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices.

Abstract

MRI is an imaging modality that uses electromagnetic fields to generate anatomic and, at times, functional information. The combination of superb image quality and lack of hazardous ionizing radiation have made its use very popular. This is the image modality of choice for imaging of the brain, lower spine, and complex joints such as the shoulder, hip, or knee. The electromagnetic fields used to obtain the MR image have the potential to interfere with the proper function of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) such as pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, and more complex devices such as cardiac resynchronization therapy with a defibrillator. Therefore, for many years, it was feared that performing MRI in patients with such devices may be associated with adverse effects. However, an estimated 2 million patients in the United States alone have CIEDs, and likely half of these patients will someday need an MRI. As such, the dilemma of exposing patients carrying such devices to MRI is common and is expected to become even more frequent as both the implantation of CIEDs and performance of MRI examinations steadily grow. The conduction system in the heart generates and propagates electric signals that …