Complications during MRI examinations with MRI-conditional cochlear implants

Introduction Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a commonly used imaging technique, can also be used for diagnostic purposes in hearing implant patients. Due to the risk of complications of this examination in cochlear implant patients (magnetic dislocation) the manufacturers have reacted and there are now several implants that are conditionally suitable for MRI without further precautions. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of complications during MRI examinations with conditionally MRI compatible implants by means of a patient survey.

Material and Methods  Between February 2018 and June 2022, patients with a conditionally MRI compatible implant were interviewed by questionnaire. General information about the implant, whether MRI examinations had already been performed, whether special protective measures were observed during these examinations, and whether and if so, what complications occurred were recorded. In the case of several MRI examinations, only the last examination performed was questioned and evaluated.

Results 258 questionnaires from patients could be evaluated, of which 33 patients (13%) stated that they had already had an MRI with their implant. No magnetic dislocation occurred. In 19 (58%) patients a wrapping bandage was applied before the examination. 5 patients (15%) complained of pain during the examination. In one case, the MRI had to be discontinued due to pain. All patients who complained of pain wore a wrap dressing.

Conclusion The new generation of conditionally MRI compatible cochlear implants makes MRI examinations possible with a high degree of safety. Pain can still occur during the MRI examination, and the tightly fitting wrapping bandage can also be responsible for this. However, further examinations are necessary to verify this.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023