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Temperature measurement on neurological pulse generators during MR scans
Wolfgang Kainz1, Georg Neubauer, Richard Uberbacher
1Department of Mobile Communications Safety, ARC Seibersdorf Research, Austria. kainz@gmx.com
Biomedical Engineering Online
|November 20, 2002
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is generally contraindicated for patients with implantable pulse generators (IPGs). This study found that the lead tip experienced a 2.1°C temperature increase, which is not harmful, suggesting MRI may be safe for some IPG patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is typically contraindicated for patients with implantable neurological pulse generators (IPGs).
- Concerns exist regarding electromagnetic field-induced heating of IPG leads, potentially harming surrounding brain tissue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the temperature changes in an implantable neurological pulse generator (IPG) and its leads during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- To assess the safety of MRI for patients with deep brain stimulation IPGs.
Main Methods:
- Temperature measurements were taken on an ITREL-III IPG and lead tip using realistic and cubic phantoms in 1.5 T and 3.0 T MRI scanners.
- The experimental setup mimicked a patient undergoing deep brain stimulation.
Main Results:
- The most significant heating occurred at the lead tip, with a maximum temperature increase of 2.1°C.
- Temperature increases at other locations were minimal compared to the lead tip.
- The measured 2.1°C temperature rise is considered safe for patients.
Conclusions:
- The lead tip is the most critical component for heating in implantable pulse generators during MRI.
- A temperature increase of 2.1°C is not harmful, suggesting MRI may be feasible for select patients with IPGs.
- Avoiding loop formation in leads is a practical strategy to minimize heating during MRI procedures.