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Cautions when fitted with a neurostimulator

If you have any kind of stimulator implanted and are referred to any new doctor, therapist or for any form of investigation, always inform the appropriate person about the device.

MRI scans - the electrical pulses of a neurostimulator interfere with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans. The stimulator will need to be switched off before having such a scan. Even when switched off, the stimulator lead and battery box may interfere with the scan images near the devices. Recently, there are concerns about MRI scans moving stimulator electrodes inside the body, and higher strength scanners cannot be used even when the device is switched off. This ban may be extended to all scanners.

Ultrasonic therapies also involve sending pulses of energy into parts of the body, for instance a physiotherapist may use an ultrasonic pad to repair a damaged muscle. Unfortunately if used simultaneously with a stimulator, there is a slight risk of damage to the tissue at the electrode site. Therefore avoid any therapy using ultrasound. If you need to undergo such treatment or therapy, ensure the stimulator is switched off.

Undergoing an additional surgical operation - there are no problems having other types of surgery. However, the surgeon needs to know that you have an implanted electrical device so that he can use the correct form of diathermy. Bipolar diathermy must be used, as unipolar diathermy may electrically short the stimulator.