Could not get an MRI

Due to back problems, my orthopedic doctor wanted me to get an MRI.  All the protocols were done, the pacemaker group approved the MRI.  When I went in to get the MRI, they did a chest xray first.  Everything seemed fine.  The pacemaker rep did some checks and was in the process of getting me setup to go in to get the MRI.  During a discussion with the rep I mentioned that when I got my last pacemaker St. Jude( 3 lead CRT)  (previously had a 2 lead Medroinic) that one of the original Medtronic leads failed during the procedure.  They put in a new St. Judes lead and left the failed lead in my heart.  After this discussion the pacemaker rep said they could not do an MRI with an abandoned lead.  This, of course, was very discouraging since I am having some intense back and leg pain(sciatia)

I am posting this in case some of you may be in the same position.  I do not know if they would have performed the MRI had I not mentioned this during the conversation with the pacemaker rep.  Just an FYI.

3 Comments

MRI conditional

by AgentX86 - 2023-07-04 11:40:48

Pacemakers that are MRI capable are really "MRI Conditional".  That is, there are conditions that have to be met before an MRI is allowed.  One of the conditions is that all of the leads are also "conditional" and all match the generator (including all from the same manufacturer). Abandoned leads also disallow an MRI.

The lesson here is that if given a choice, removing a lead is preferable to abandoning one. An MRI may be necessary (even critical) at some point. Removing a lead isn't an extremely risky procedure, anymore, so it should it should be a realistic option.

How disappointing

by Lavender - 2023-07-04 20:03:50

You should have been told that when the lead was abandoned.  It would have been helpful to have a choice if possible. Hoping they can see what's going on with your back through some other test means. 

leads and MRI

by islandgirl - 2023-07-13 21:21:55

I have different manufacturer's leads, 1 St Jude/Abbott and 2 Medtronic, all MRI conditional, and after the implant found there's a problem with MRIs with different lead manufacturers.  I wish I had been told before the change, but the hospital I had the upgrade from ICD to CRT-D device implanted had a contract with St Jude/Abbott. I would have gone elsewhere for the implant.  At least when they upgraded me from a PM to an ICD they didn't leave a loose lead for the RV shocking lead.  My EP told me he would be changing out that lead.  

 

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The pacer systems are really very reliable. The main problem is the incompetent programming of them. If yours is working well for you, get on with life and enjoy it. You probably are more at risk of problems with a valve job than the pacer.