Safety And Utility Of Cardiac MRI In A Patient With Pericardial Effusion And A Recently Implanted Conventional Pacemaker

Cardiac MRI is usually not recommended in the acute phase after pacemaker implantation, particularly for conventional devices. This case concerns a 66-year-old patient who developed significant pericardial effusion subacutely after implantation of a dual-chamber, conventional pacemaker. Cardiac MRI was planned to elucidate the characteristics of the pericardial effusion and was performed under controlled conditions without any consequences. Images analysis was very helpful to reveal the non-hemorrhagic nature of the pericardial effusion and correct endocardial position of the leads. In conclusion, cardiac MRI might be feasible and useful, under controlled conditions, in selected non-pacing dependent patients with conventional pacemakers.