Summary

Due to multiple risks associated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with pacemakers, the American Heart Association published a consensus statement in 2007 indicating that MRI should only be used in patients with pacemakers if no other diagnostic techniques are available and if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks [Levine GN et al. Circulation 2007]. Risks include heating at the lead tips, image distortion, reed switch malfunction, asynchronous pacing, and death [Santini L et al. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2013]. This article discusses the safety of MRI in patients with pacemakers, the subcutaneous implantable cardiac defibrillator system, cardiac contractility modulators for patients with symptomatic heart failure, and the use of implanted devices for monitoring patient status, among other things.