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Magnetic Resonance Imaging with Active Implantable Hearing Devices: Reports from the Daily Radiological Routine in an
Julia Fruehwald-Pallamar1, Franz Fruehwald1, Laura Holzer-Fruehwald1
1Institut Fruehwald und Partner, 3100 St. Poelten, Austria.
Purpose:
For people with hearing implants (HI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) still presents some difficulties due to the built-in magnet. Radiologists often have concerns regarding complications associated with HIs. The aim of this study was to record the experiences of HI users during and after MRI examinations.
Method:
A survey including 15 questions regarding MRI specifics, namely changes in hearing ability, hearing/sound impressions, pain, uncomfortable feelings, etc., were mailed to our patients.
Results:
Overall, 79 patients with HI had a total of 159 MR examinations in our institute. A total of 45 HI recipients reported back: 35% stated that they had been rejected by an MRI Institute because of their HI. Their feelings/impression ratings during the measurements were not present and therefore were not rated for the majority (49%), 42% of the HI users rated the pain with 0 (no pain), 2% with 1 (very light pain), 4% with 5 (acceptable pain), and 2% rated the pain with 7, which is between acceptable and strong pain. One examination resulted in a dislocation of the magnet of a cochlear implant (CI 512 Cochlear Limited). No adverse events were reported for MED-EL HI users in the survey (none of the contacted AB users answered the questionnaire). The reported mean daily wearing time was 11.6 ± 4.6 h per day for 6.3 ± 1.7 days per week.
Conclusions:
Based on these results and our experience we conclude that MRI examinations with HI are safe given that the measurements are performed according to the safety policies and procedures released by the manufacturers.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with hearing implants (HI) is generally safe when manufacturer guidelines are followed. While some patients experience rejection from MRI facilities, most HI users report minimal discomfort during scans, with few adverse events.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Otolaryngology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) poses challenges for individuals with hearing implants (HI) due to internal magnets.
- Radiologists express concerns about potential complications associated with HI during MRI procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the experiences of hearing implant users undergoing MRI examinations.
- To assess the safety and patient-reported outcomes of MRI in individuals with hearing implants.
Main Methods:
- A survey with 15 questions was distributed to patients with hearing implants who underwent MRI.
- The survey collected data on MRI specifics, including hearing ability changes, sound perception, pain, and discomfort.
Main Results:
- 35% of surveyed hearing implant recipients reported being previously rejected for MRI due to their device.
- The majority of patients (49%) did not rate their experience, while 42% reported no pain during MRI.
- One case of cochlear implant magnet dislocation occurred; no adverse events were reported for MED-EL users.
Conclusions:
- MRI examinations are considered safe for hearing implant users when conducted following manufacturer safety protocols.
- Adherence to established safety policies and procedures is crucial for mitigating risks associated with MRI in HI patients.
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Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...