A Novel Automated System for Evaluating AIMD Safety in MRI RF Fields

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a widely used diagnostic tool with millions of scans performed annually. However, the presence of active implantable medical devices (AIMDs), such as neurostimulators, can pose significant safety risks due to interactions of AIMDs and the MRI's electromagnetic fields. Specifically, radiofrequency (RF)-induced heating can lead to device malfunction or tissue damage. To address these risks, this study introduces a novel automated scaling and validation test system to evaluate the safety of AIMDs during MRI scans. The system streamlines the process of positioning AIMDs along various trajectories and measuring RF-induced heating, significantly reducing manual intervention and potential errors. Results demonstrate enhanced efficiency and reliability in AIMD model validation, with a high correlation between predicted and measured results. By automating the validation process, this system has the potential to improve patient safety, reduce costs, and expand the use of MRI for patients with AIMDs.