Developing & Testing MR-Compatible Active Implantable Devices

Joseph M. Bocek¹

Clinicians currently face a complex decision when determining whether to perform MRI examination of a patient with an active implantable medical device (AIMD). There are known interactions between the MRI scanner and AIMD, and little data to support a clinical risk vs. benefit decision. Recent advances in AIMD technology and modeling are directed toward reducing the probability of harmful interactions occurring and toward assessing this probability. Researchers, AIMD and MRI scanner manufacturers, and regulatory bodies are collaborating to advance the management of MRI/AIMD system interactions through standards development for testing and labeling these devices.