The Assurity MRI™ pacemaker, when used with Tendril MRI™ or Tendril STS™ pacing leads, is MRI safe, allowing for full-body 1.5T and 3T MRI scans. Notably, when combined, there's no waiting period required between implantation and MRI scan readiness.
Here's a breakdown:
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Pacemaker System: The key to MRI safety lies in a system approach. It's not just the pacemaker but also the leads (wires) connected to the heart.
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Assurity MRI™ Pacemaker: This pacemaker is specifically designed to minimize interference and potential risks during an MRI scan.
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Tendril MRI™ and Tendril STS™ Pacing Leads: These leads are also designed to be MRI conditional, ensuring compatibility with the Assurity MRI™ pacemaker. These leads were specifically created to function safely within the MRI environment.
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MRI Conditional: This means that under specific conditions, outlined by the manufacturer, an MRI scan can be safely performed. These conditions typically involve specific MRI machine settings and protocols.
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1.5T and 3T MRI Scans: The Assurity MRI™ system is approved for use with both 1.5 Tesla (1.5T) and 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanners, which are common in clinical settings.
Important Considerations:
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Not all pacemakers are MRI safe. Older models or those not explicitly labeled as "MRI conditional" should never be subjected to an MRI scan without consulting a cardiologist and a radiologist.
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Specific MRI protocols are crucial. Even with an MRI-safe pacemaker system, specific MRI settings and procedures must be followed to ensure patient safety and prevent device malfunction. The MRI technician and radiologist will be aware of these protocols.
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Consultation is essential. Before undergoing an MRI, patients with pacemakers should always inform their healthcare providers and ensure that the appropriate precautions are taken.
In summary, only specific pacemaker systems, like the Assurity MRI™ pacemaker used with compatible leads such as the Tendril MRI™ or Tendril STS™ leads, are designed to be MRI safe under defined conditions. It is crucial to confirm that your pacemaker system is MRI-conditional before undergoing an MRI scan.
