MRI safety for hearing implants - what you should know!

As MRI examinations are becoming increasingly important due to their precise imaging, it is important to consider the degree of MR compatibility when choosing a hearing implant.

While other radiological procedures such as X-ray, CT scan, scintigraphy or ultrasound examination do not require any special preparation for users of hearing implant systems and can be performed without hesitation, the strong magnetic field used in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination must be carefully considered. As there is also a magnet in the implant part used for the connection to the external audio processor, the interaction of the two magnetic fields can have a negative effect on the user.

Field strengths of 1.0 to 3.0 Tesla are common in the medical field. With the exception of the previously used VORP 502 middle ear implant, all MED-EL hearing implant systems are MR-compatible up to 1.5 Tesla, the newer generation even up to 3.0 Tesla. Users of MED-EL hearing implant systems can therefore breathe a sigh of relief, as they have no reason to worry if an MRI scan is required.

In the event of an MRI examination, however, the radiology institute of your choice should be informed about the implant in advance so that there is enough time for any queries before the examination appointment.

During the examination, the user should remove the outer parts of the hearing system, sometimes a light pressure bandage is recommended. The radiology assistant will explain the rest of the procedure on site.

For more information on the compatibility of MED-EL hearing implant systems with medical procedures, click here:

You are currently reading: