Special Considerations in Patients with Cranial Neurostimulatory Implants

Over the past 50 years, incredible progress has been made with implantable devices. Management can become complex, as unique issues arise with interaction of these devices with other devices and technologies. The cochlear implant (CI) is the most commonly implanted device in the head and neck. Because of its internal magnet, CIs can interfere with MRI, causing imaging artifacts, pain, and device complications. Other implants demonstrate similar issues with imaging and co-implantation. This article provides an overview of special considerations regarding neurostimulation devices within the head and neck. We focus on interactions between implantable devices and other technologies or devices.