I have a CRT-D device implanted which is MRI compatible. It looks like I might now need an MRI scan of my head - most likely under private health care. Does anyone know what extra arrangements, if any, are needed to have an MRI scan with an implanted heart device (one that is compatible with MRI scanners)?
Someone once mentioned to me that it requires the attendance of an implantable device technician. Is that right? Does it need a special MRI scanner?
If the hospital where you're having the MRI is aware that you have an ICD they should arrange this. I have an ICD and had an MRI recently and the techs changed the setting, which after the procedure changed back to its usual setting. Hope it goes well.
My husband had an MRI this week and he has two mechanical valves and a dual pacemaker. Once all of the valve information was received from the hospital where his op was carried out they insured a tech was present at the time of the scan to change the settings of the pacemaker. Wishing you all the best.
Thank you. That's very helpful.
Hi ed. Yes, I’ve got an acoustic neuroma (brain tumour), so I’ve had a few MRI scans over the last couple of years at both St George’s an Royal Marsden. They both call in a tech from the pacing clinic to turn off my ICD, monitor me during the MRI, then reset it afterwards. It’s easy enough at St G’s as they have their own pacing clinic in the same building as neuro, but at RM they can only do it at the Chelsea branch (I’m much nearer the Sutton branch), as they call in a tech from the Royal Brompton next door!
As far as I know, it doesn’t need a special scanner.
Thanks! A possible acoustic neuroma is why I might need an MRI funnily enough. Been having tinnitus and balance problems on and off. Anyway, this is good to know. Currently I'm on a private track because the NHS wait in Worcestershire was 65 weeks to see an ENT consultant. I wonder if the private MRI services will be able to accomadate the device tech work and if so what it will cost. We shall see...
Interestingly, my GP referred me to audiology rather than ENT, and their MRI list was much shorter. From GP’s referral to MRI scan was only about 9 months. But that’s London, of course.
Neuromas normally cause deafness, so it may be something else. I don’t see why it t can’t be done privately; just a bit more hassle, and therefore cost!
PS Make sure the hospital doing the MRI knows about not only the CRT-D, but also any stents and tattoos you have. Tattooists use metallic ink. Who knew? LOL . Good luck xx
You need to ensure that the leads used are also MRI compatible. My device is but the leads are not .
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