RF Noise Artifacts From a High Frequency Spinal Cord Stimulation System: A Retrospective Imaging Cohort With
Eric G Stinson1, Abby J Hubbard1, Jenna E Kleinow1
1Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
Abstract:
Unexpected RF noise artifact "followed" a patient with an implanted spinal cord stimulator to multiple MR systems. Subsequent testing and clinical scanning showed no artifact, implying that the artifact originated from the implanted device. MR exams (n = 173) performed over a two-year period in patients (n = 122) who had implanted spinal cord stimulators from the same manufacturer were reviewed for artifacts and device models. RF noise artifacts were observed in ~50% of exams in patients with a specific model of spinal cord stimulator, but only ~1%-8% of exams in other models from the same manufacturer. We hope that by describing this artifact, health care professionals can avoid service costs and scheduling delays.