Question: Is it true that I can never get an MRI (magnetic
resonance imaging scan) again once I have a pacemaker? Answer
:MRI, CT, and PET are three different techniques for getting
images of the heart. MR is a magnetic system, it doesn't use
radiation. But because it involves the use of very powerful
magnetic fields, in general, anybody with a pacemaker or a
defibrillator should not have an MRI examination performed. Now
that said, there are MRI compatible devices that are being
developed and at some centers there is some experimental work
using MRI in patients with pacemakers. However, in 2008 it is
our recommendation that patients with metal in their bodies --
and that includes pacemakers or defibrillators-- not have MRIs
done. Now a CT scan is a form of x-ray. Both CT and MRI produce
very detailed three-dimensional pictures of the heart. They just
use different approaches to achieve the same result. And anybody
with a pacemaker or a defibrillator can have a CT scan of their
heart done perfectly safely. Th