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Intermediate Cervical Plexus
OA-Reg. Anes. Block of the Month: January 2025
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Question of the Day
The presence of which of the following implanted devices is LEAST likely a contraindication for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan?
Explanation
Anesthesia for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is associated with a number of unique considerations for anesthesia providers. The anesthesiologist is often positioned far from the patient. Additionally, all objects brought into the MRI room must be MRI compatible. Objects that contain iron or steel will become projectiles in the presence of an MRI scanner. The patients themselves must all be scanned for the presence of incompatible objects including pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), cochlear implants, pumps, nerve stimulators, aneurysm clips, metal fragments, and bullets. These items are subject to both heating and movement within the patient and potential reprogramming in the case of pumps and pacemakers/ICDs. All patients should undergo some form of pre-screening before being placed in the MRI scanner to avoid any potential harm. Recently, many medical devices and implants being used are MRI compatible including vascular clips, staples, orthopedic implants, heart valves, and prostheses.
References:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging SafetyPatel, B, Shyn, P, Tuncali, K, et al. Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound-guided imaging procedures. In Urman, R, Gross, WL, Philip, B, eds. Anesthesia outside the operating room. New York: Oxford University Press, 2011: 82-91.
Practice Advisory on Anesthetic Care for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (download)OA Series: January 2025
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OA-Regional Anesthesia Block of the Month
Intermediate Cervical PlexusMelody Herman, MD, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC
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