Researchers find temporary epicardial leads safe, temporary intracardiac leads unsafe for MRI use*

November 18, 2008 Researchers find temporary epicardial leads safe, temporary intracardiac leads unsafe for MRI use* By Frank G. Shellock, Ph.D., FACC, FACSM Although MRI examinations in patients with retained temporary epicardial leads, which consist of electrically conductive material, could theoretically lead to cardiac excitation or thermal injury, such leads are relatively short in length, usually do not form large loops, and are generally not believed to pose a significant risk during MRI procedures. Hartnell et al reported on 51 patients with retained temporary epicardial pacing wires who underwent clinical MRI procedures. Of those patients examined with electrocardiographic monitoring, no arrhythmias were noted. For all patients, no symptoms suggestive of arrhythmia or other cardiac dysfunction were noted, although the anatomic region examined and the energies used in the examinations were not specifically described.

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