Systematic examination of complications after MRI in patients with hearing implants

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a regularly used imaging technique can also be used in patients with hearing implants for diagnostic measures. However, due to the implanted magnetic components complications can be possible. The aim of this study is to assess the frequency of MRI scans and the probability of associated medical complications.

Within the scope of after-care 711 CI patients were asked to complete questionnaires regarding past MRI scans. Safety precautions and symptoms during the scan were assessed. Potential complications were also evaluated. In 92 out of the 711 patients (13 % ) entered in the study at least one (MW 1.6) MRI scan was performed since implantation. Most patients (75) made use of an external institution.

Safety dressings were used in 65 patients (70.7  % ). 34 patients (37 % ) reported pain during the examination, in 29 patients (85 % ) the intensity of the pain was from medium to high. Dislocation of the magnetic components occurred in 7 patients (7.6 % ) with safety dressings used in 5 of these cases. All Patients needed surgical treatment. The results show that about 13 %  of our hearing implant patients already had MRI scans performed, most of them in external institutions (82 % ). In almost one third of patients no safety dressings were applied, the main complications were dislocation of the magnet and pain. This shows that the treating hospital is not aware of the majority of performed MRI scans and that medical necessity should be carefully considered with a structured approach during examination. Patients should be informed on the risk of examination related pain (37 % ) and magnetic component dislocation.

Poster-PDF A-1490.pdf

Publication History

Article published online:
13 May 2021