Can Lumbosacral Magnetic Resonance Imaging be Performed Safely in Patients with a Sacral Neuromodulation Device? An In Vivo Prospective Study

Purpose: We sought to determine the safety of sacral neuromodulation in patients during lumbosacral 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging.Materials and Methods: We prospectively recruited patients with a sacral neuromodulation implant who required lumbosacral 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging. Before imaging the patients completed validated urinary symptom questionnaires and a survey regarding the usual sacral neuromodulation sensation. The implantable pulse generator was interrogated, and impedances, battery life and stimulus amplitude sensory thresholds were assessed before and after magnetic resonance imaging. Devices were switched off before the patient entered the scanner. Patients were monitored during the study and magnetic resonance imaging related adverse events questionnaires were completed after imaging. Validated questionnaires were repeated 1 month after magnetic resonance imaging to assess for changes in sacral neuromodulation therapeutic efficacy.Results: A total of 11 patients were enrol...