MRI + Your Heart Device

What is an MRI?

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. MRI is an imaging technique that provides a visualized detail of internal body tissues. MRI provides much greater contrast and clarity between the different soft tissues of the body than other imaging technologies, making it especially valuable in diagnosing neurological (brain), musculoskeletal and cardiovascular conditions, as well as cancer.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MRI AND OTHER TECHNOLOGIES

MRI, unlike CT scans, does not use radiation to produce an image but rather uses strong magnetic fields to create images of structures inside the body. While CT scans are used for imaging hard materials in the body like bones, MRI is used to image soft tissue.

Unlike previous generations of cardiac devices, the SureScan™ systems are FDA approved for MR-conditional use in the MRI environment. Your device identification card will indicate whether or not you have a complete heart device system that allows you access to an MRI scan. 

Without SureScan technology, an MRI could change the settings and/or temporarily affect the normal operation of your heart device. If you are referred for an MRI scan, your cardiologist will determine if you meet the necessary conditions for a scan and will provide further information about the steps you need to take before getting a scan.

ANY OF THESE HEALTH CONDITIONS MAY INCREASE THE CHANCES OF NEEDING AN MRI

• Stroke
• Headaches
• Heart Disease
• Cancer (breast, prostate, bladder)
• Existing implants (hip, knee, shoulder, stents, etc.)
• Chronic pain (back, shoulder, hip, neck)
• Brain related disease

THESE MEDICAL ISSUES DON’T NECESSARILY MEAN YOU NEED AN MRI, BUT THEY OFTEN LEAD TO OTHER CONDITIONS THAT DO.

• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Atrial Fibrillation
• Coronary Artery Disease

Additionally, living an active lifestyle could lead to injury. MRIs are a diagnostic tool for ligament and tissue injuries.