Key result
An MRI scan was safely performed under controlled conditions in a 71-year-old male with a permanent pacemaker, demonstrating that MRI can be feasible in these patients.
Why the study?
Can an MRI scan be safely performed in a patient with a permanent pacemaker under controlled conditions?
Case Report (n=1)
No
Can an MRI scan be safely performed in a patient with a permanent pacemaker under controlled conditions?
This case demonstrates that MRI can be performed safely in selected patients with permanent pacemakers under controlled conditions and highlights the role of clinical ethics committees.
Having a pacemaker has been seen an absolute contraindication to having an MRI scan. This has become increasingly difficult in clinical practice as insertion of pacemakers and implantable cardiac defibrillators is at an all time high. Here we outline a case where a 71-year-old male patient with a permanent pacemaker needed to have an MRI scan to ascertain the aetiology of his condition and help guide further management. Given this clinical dilemma, an emergency clinical ethics consultation was arranged. As a result the patient underwent an MRI scan safely under controlled conditions with a consultant cardiologist and radiologist present. The results of the MRI scan were then able to tailor further treatment. This case highlights that in certain conditions an MRI can be performed in patients with permanent pacemakers and outlines the role of clinical ethics committees in complex medical decision making.
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Millar et al. (2010) conducted a case report in Permanent pacemaker needing MRI (n=1). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was evaluated. An MRI scan was safely performed under controlled conditions in a 71-year-old male with a permanent pacemaker, demonstrating that MRI can be feasible in these patients.
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