MRI Conditionality in Patients with Spinal Cord Stimulation Devices

Abstract

Background: Because of the commonality of diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), MRI conditional technology has increased throughout the device industry. It is often difficult to be aware of MRI specifications for each device. Objectives: We provide a review of the clinical experience with MRI and spinal cord stimulation (SCS) devices and develop a general reference of current device/MRI specifications. Methods: We reviewed the available literature on the clinical experience with SCS devices and examined its specifications. Results: We developed a user-friendly table of the specific compatibility of SCS devices in the USA and the European Union, and examined the existing literature on the clinical experience with MRI and SCS devices. We share our experience with obtaining spine MRI with MRI conditional SCS leads. Conclusion: By describing SCS device specifications and reviewing the literature, we provide a guide to implanting and treating physicians on obtaining MRIs in patients who have SCS devices.

International Continence Society best practice statement for use of sacral neuromodulation

“…MRI imaging is used to diagnose and monitor an increasing number of conditions. There are three magnetic fields during MRI that can react with implanted neuromodulation devices including mechanical force and torque induced by a static magnetic field, induced voltages and current on leads by a pulsed gradient field, and current induced into the generator body by the radiofrequency magnetic field . These forces could potentially result in local tissue injury or damage to the implanted devices.…”

“…There are three magnetic fields during MRI that can react with implanted neuromodulation devices including mechanical force and torque induced by a static magnetic field, induced voltages and current on leads by a pulsed gradient field, and current induced into the generator body by the radiofrequency magnetic field. [158][159][160] These forces could potentially result in local tissue injury or damage to the implanted devices. Until the development of MR conditional neuromodulation systems, it is necessary to consider explantation of entire systems in order to perform MRI, exposing the patient to loss of therapy benefit, additional surgical risks, and costs.…”

Innovations in spinal cord stimulation for pain

“…Over the last several years, there has been an improvement in MRI compatibility of SCS systems. There are now a number of commercial SCS systems that are conditionally safe for MRI [45].…”

Wireless Spinal Cord Stimulation Technology for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain: A Single-Center Experience

“…In case of successful SCS testing, that is, in case of treatment response, the extension wire will be removed and the IPG will be implanted subcutaneously and connected to the epidural electrode. Most conventional SCS devices are 1.5‐T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) conditional (2) and only few systems are 3‐T conditional (3).…”