From the Guidelines
Yes, a patient can undergo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with an implantable loop recorder (ILR), but it depends on the specific type of ILR and adherence to certain conditions. Most modern loop recorders are MRI-conditional, meaning they can safely undergo MRI scans under specific conditions, such as using 1.5 or 3 Tesla MRI machines and following particular scanning parameters 1. The conditions for MRI compatibility may include waiting a certain period after implantation, often 4-6 weeks, before undergoing an MRI scan. It is essential to inform the healthcare provider about the loop recorder to verify its MRI compatibility and ensure proper protocols are followed during the MRI procedure. The radiologist and cardiologist will need to coordinate to ensure the patient's safety during the MRI scan. Some older loop recorder models may not be MRI-compatible, so knowing the exact device model is crucial 1. Newer loop recorders are designed with materials and electronic components that minimize interaction with the strong magnetic fields used in MRI scanning, preventing device malfunction or tissue heating that could occur with non-compatible devices. Key considerations for MRI scans with an ILR include:
- Using specific MRI machines (1.5 or 3 Tesla)
- Following particular scanning parameters
- Waiting a certain period after implantation (often 4-6 weeks)
- Informing the healthcare provider about the loop recorder to verify its MRI compatibility
- Coordinating with the radiologist and cardiologist to ensure proper protocols are followed during the MRI procedure. In general, the decision to perform an MRI scan on a patient with an ILR should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific device model, the patient's medical condition, and the potential benefits and risks of the MRI scan 1.
From the Research
MRI Compatibility with Implantable Loop Recorders (ILRs)
- Patients with ILRs can undergo MRI scans, but precautions should be taken to avoid potential interactions 2, 3, 4.
- Studies have shown that MRI scanning of ILR patients can be performed without harm to the patient or permanent damage to the ILR 2, 4.
- However, artifacts mimicking arrhythmias are common and must be excluded to avoid mistakenly attributing symptoms to the artifacts produced from MRI exposure 2, 4.
Safety Precautions
- The ILR memory should be cleared before MRI, and no changes should be made to programmed settings 2, 4.
- Device interrogation should take place immediately after the scan to verify the integrity of the signal and time date stamp 2.
- Patients should be surveyed for device movement, heating, and cardiopulmonary symptoms after their MRI 2, 4.
Feasibility of MRI in ILR Patients
- MRI is feasible in patients with ILRs, and with appropriate precautions, it can be performed without immediate morbidity or mortality 3.
- Local follow-up data has shown no device malfunction or adverse effects in patients with ILRs who underwent MRI 3.
- However, electromagnetic interference from MRI can potentially cause irreversible errors in ILR function, and physicians should be aware of possible malfunctioning of these devices 5.