Problems of Magnetic resonance imaging in patients with Cochlea implants: a Heidelberg case series

Introduction Quality of life is closely linked to our physical health. Studies have shown that hearing loss is often associated with loneliness and social isolation. Not only rehabilitation but also prevention plays an important role in achieving best health standards. MRI is increasingly used for medical investigations concerning physiological and pathological processes of many diseases. The purpose of this study was to illustrate potential challenges in performing MRI scans on CI implanted patients.

Material We scanned our internal data base for patients that were implanted in our clinic since 2017 and presented with discomfort in the CI area during a MRI scan.

Results The collective contains thirteen patients that were implanted with a device from the “Cochlear” company and one with a device from the “Advanced Biopnics” company. Three of them had MRI scans of the spinal colum, two had MRI scans of the abdomen, three had MRI scans of the extremities and five got MRI scans of the neurocranium . Eleven out of fourteen had a bandage wrapped around their head during the scan. All fourteen patients presented with discomfort in the area of the CI. Clinical examination and imaging showed dislocation of the respective magnets in eleven of the fourteen patients. All patients had to be taken to the theater for surgery.

Conclusion We see a correlation between MRI scans and dislocation of the CI magnet. All fourteen patients that presented with either discomfort at the CI area or dislocation of the magnet have had recent MRI scans. Using the recommended wrapped head bandage did not prevent dislocation.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
10. Juni 2020