Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are an important part of many therapies and procedures. It’s possible you’ll need to receive an MRI or other imaging at some point. If you have an implanted electronic device, such as an implantable pulse generator (IPG),  there are certain things you need to know about safely receiving an MRI scan.

An MRI uses strong magnets to create images of the organs and tissues in the body. In general, MRI scans are safe, routine procedures. But in rare cases, they can interfere with your IPG, possibly leading to injury. If you have an implanted device, you need to make sure your device is approved to receive an MRI.

Fortunately, with certain Abbott neurostimulators, you can safely have an MRI scan when conditions for safe scanning are met. Your clinician can help you to understand whether your Infinity™ DBS System configuration is MR Conditional. 

Can I receive an MRI with my device?

Your Infinity™ DBS System may be designed to let you safely receive an MRI scan under certain conditions.

If you're preparing for an MRI scan, it's essential to understand how the Infinity™ DBS System interacts with MRI environments.

If you have an implanted neurostimulator and will be receiving an MRI scan, follow these steps to make sure you're taking good care of yourself and your system:

1. Contact your movement disorder specialist to see if you can safely receive the type of MRI scan prescribed.
   • Ask about possible effects the scan may have on your device to ensure that your specific Abbott device is eligible for an MRI.
2. Reach out to the clinic that prescribed your MRI scan.
   • Tell them you have an implanted neurostimulation system.
   • Share the model numbers and locations of your implanted neurostimulation system parts.
   • If you can't find your Patient ID card, contact customer service (at +1-800-727-7846) or look up the lead/extension models in your Patient Controller application.
3. Schedule your MRI appointment with the clinic.
4. Confirm functionality of your Patient Controller.
   • Locate your Patient Controller and connect to your IPG.

Please see guidance currently available in your Patient Manual.

Before your MRI scan, make sure you:

• Before attempting to place your device into MRI mode, and with the help of your physician or Abbott representative, ensure your Patient Controller app is updated to the latest “Patient Controller NR - US” application from the Apple^‡ App Store^‡.
• Disable automatic updates for the Patient Controller app and iOS^‡ software before placing the IPG in MRI mode. 
• Fully charge your patient controller. Refer to your user guide for charging instructions.
• If applicable, fully charge your generator.
• Set your system to MRI mode. This turns off stimulation and protects your device during your MRI scan.

While in MRI mode:

• DO NOT: alter, damage, update or lose your Patient Controller handheld while your implant is in MRI mode.
• DO NOT: update, install, or delete the Patient Controller app or Bluetooth^‡ connection while your implant is in MRI mode.

Note: Performing any of the above actions while your device is in MRI mode may result in the inability to exit MRI mode. The inability to exit MRI mode would require device replacement surgery to restore therapy. See product advisories.

While your device is in MRI mode, stimulation will be off. Setting your IPG to MRI Mode should be done no more than 24 hours in advance, and as close to the MRI procedure as possible, preferably at the scanning facility.

Bring these items to your appointment:

• Abbott Patient Implant Card
• Patient controller
• Any forms or checklists provided by your physician or MRI scanning center

Use your Patient Controller to exit MRI mode. Then, manually turn on stimulation to restore therapy.

If you are unable to use your Patient Controller to communicate with your implant while in MRI mode, contact your physician, Abbott representative, or Abbott Technical Support at +1-800-314-0940 immediately as there may be additional options to restore communication with your neurostimulator implant and exit MRI mode.

Learn more about Abbott neurostimulation systems.