New Technology Simplifies MRI Screening for Patients with Implanted Cardiac Devices

Research has shown that 50-70% of patients with a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator system will require an MRI at some point in their life. Unfortunately, many of these patients face cancellations and delays when trying to get the necessary MRI scans. This is partly due to the increased workload burden and expense associated with device checks prior to the scans.

Medtronic plc (Dublin, Ireland) has introduced the MRI Care Pathway, an innovative solution that can simplify the process of conducting MRI scans for patients who have Medtronic MRI-compatible cardiac devices. The system includes a website and a tablet-based application that healthcare providers can utilize to minimize scheduling delays throughout the MRI scan process. Additionally, the app contains safety features that can notify MR technologists if an MRI scan cannot be safely executed.

Image: MRI Care Pathway can increase flexibility and efficiency with new tools developed to streamline workflow (Photo courtesy of Medtronic)

Previously, healthcare providers had to coordinate with cardiologists, MR technologists, and clinic staff to confirm the compatibility of a patient's cardiac device before scheduling an MRI appointment. However, with the launch of the MRI Care Pathway, clinicians can independently verify a patient's device's compatibility using the pathway's website. If the patient's device is MRI-compatible, the care team can schedule the MRI appointment without delay. During the MRI scan, the MR technologist can use the app provided by the pathway to set the device parameters automatically for a safe scan. After the scan, the MR technologist can use the same app to restore the patient's device to its pre-scan settings. The pathway enhances flexibility and efficiency, resulting in faster patient access to MRI scans. The app is compatible with Medtronic's SureScan devices, such as pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, cardiac resynchronization devices, and insertable cardiac monitor systems.

“Medtronic’s MRI Care Pathway is user-friendly and supports MR technologists in quickly conducting safe MRI scans for patients with Medtronic cardiac devices, which can ultimately reduce a patient’s time waiting for important imaging data,” said Jim Vogl, vice president of Patient Care Systems, Cardiac Rhythm Management, which is part of the Cardiovascular Portfolio at Medtronic. “It empowers clinicians and patients to focus on the care they need, the moment they need it.”

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