Unexpected asystole during 3T magnetic resonance imaging of a pacemaker-dependent patient with a 'modern' pacemaker.
Pacemaker patients might safely undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) if several prudent suggestions are followed by the supervising physician. Controversy exists regarding the safety of scanning all device patients, but especially pacemaker-dependent patients. Despite following suggestions previously proposed, physicians should be prepared for unexpected potentially life-threatening events during the conduct of MRI.
Gimbel
J Rod
JR
East Tennessee Heart Consultants, 9330 Parkwest Blvd., Suite 202, Knoxville, TN, USA. gimbeljr@ix.netcom.com
D000368:Aged; D004868:Equipment Failure; D005260:Female; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects*