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 a neurostimulator, 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 neurostimulator device, 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. Our table can help you identify which kinds of scans are approved for each of our MR-conditional implanted devices.

Can I receive an MRI with my device?

Your system may be designed to let you safely receive an MRI scan under certain conditions. The Abbott devices shown in the table are eligible for an MRI scan within approved parameters. 

Always ask your pain physician to confirm whether your device is eligible for an MRI.

Depending on your device and which leads have been implanted with your system, you may qualify for an MRI scan of either your whole body or just your head and extremities (arms and legs). 

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 pain 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. Your pain specialist may also provide you with a patient eligibility form/checklist.
   • If your doctor or MRI technologist is unsure if your Abbott neurostimulation system is eligible for an MRI, check your Abbott Patient Implant Card to verify. It includes the model number of your system as well as a website that provides guidelines for safely conducting an MRI with that type of system. 
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.
3. Schedule your MRI appointment with the clinic.

Please see guidance currently available in your Patient Manual.

Before you arrive for your MRI scan, make sure you:

• Fully charge your patient controller. Refer to your user guide for charging instructions.
• If applicable, fully charge your generator.
• Set your system in MRI mode. This turns off stimulation and protects your device during your MRI scan.
  • Note: Do not delete generator pairing while in MRI mode. Doing so will prevent the system from disabling MRI, which may prevent therapy from being turned on again.

Bring these items to your appointment:

• Abbott Patient Implant Card
• Patient controller
• Patient eligibility form/checklist (if provided) for MRI Scans

For more information about preparing for an MRI with your device, please refer to the product manual, our support web page or call Abbott Technical Support: +1-800-727-7846.

Learn more about Abbott neurostimulation systems.