MRI Conditionality in Patients with Spinal Cord Stimulation Devices

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Neuromodulation
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a common diagnostic tool.
• The prevalence of MRI-conditional technology in medical devices necessitates awareness of specific device MRI compatibility.
• Navigating MRI specifications for individual devices presents a significant challenge for healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical experiences with MRI and spinal cord stimulation (SCS) devices.
• To create a general reference for current SCS device and MRI specifications.
• To assist physicians in managing patients with SCS devices undergoing MRI.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted on clinical experiences with SCS devices.
• Specifications of SCS devices were systematically examined.
• Existing literature on MRI use in patients with SCS was analyzed.

Main Results:

• A user-friendly table detailing SCS device compatibility in the USA and EU was developed.
• The literature review provided insights into clinical experiences with MRI and SCS.
• The study shares practical experience with performing spine MRIs in patients with MRI-conditional SCS leads.

Conclusions:

• Physicians can use this guide, based on SCS device specifications and literature review, to safely obtain MRIs in patients with SCS.
• This resource aims to improve the management of patients requiring MRI scans while having implanted SCS devices.
• Understanding device-specific MRI parameters is crucial for patient safety and effective treatment.