Outcome of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in selected patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).

OBJECTIVE

To determine if simple strategies used to safely scan pacemaker patients could be applied to implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), patients undergoing MRI allowing ICD patients to undergo MRI as well.

INTERVENTIONS

Screening, reprogramming, and monitoring strategies were used to facilitate MRI.

RESULTS

Seven patients underwent eight MRI scans at 1.5 T. Post-MRI, all devices demonstrated no change in pacing, sensing, impedances, charge times, or battery status. The patient undergoing a lumbar spine scan experienced a "power-on-reset" of his ICD without permanent impairment of his device.

CONCLUSION

Scanning of ICD patients might be performed if appropriate reprogramming and monitoring is implemented.