• Frank G Shellock and Annabelle J Audet-Griffin.
• Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California and Institute for Magnetic Resonance Safety, Education, and Research, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
• Neuromodulation. 2014 Jun 1;17(4):334-9; discussion 339.

ObjectiveThe objective of this investigation was to evaluate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) issues (magnetic field interactions, MRI-related heating, and artifacts) for a wirelessly powered lead used for spinal cord stimulation (SCS).Materials And MethodsA newly developed, wirelessly powered lead (Freedom-4, Stimwave Technologies Inc., Scottsdale, AZ, USA) underwent evaluation for magnetic field interactions (translational attraction and torque) at 3 Tesla, MRI-related heating at 1.5 Tesla/64 MHz and 3 Tesla/128 MHz, and artifacts at 3 Tesla using standardized techniques. MRI-related heating tests were conducted by placing the lead in a gelled-saline-filled phantom and performing MRI procedures using relatively high levels of radiofrequency energy. Artifacts were characterized using T1-weighted, spin echo (SE), and gradient echo (GRE) pulse sequences.ResultsThe lead exhibited minor magnetic field interactions (2 degree deflection angle and no torque). Heating was not substantial under 1.5 Tesla/64 MHz (highest temperature change, 2.3°C) and 3 Tesla/128 MHz (highest temperature change, 2.2°C) MRI conditions. Artifacts were moderate in size relative to the size and shape of the lead.ConclusionsThese findings demonstrated that it is acceptable for a patient with this wirelessly powered lead used for SCS to undergo MRI under the conditions utilized in this investigation and according to other necessary guidelines. Artifacts seen on magnetic resonance images may pose possible problems if the area of interest is in the same area or close to this lead.© 2013 International Neuromodulation Society.

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