COCHLEAR IMPLANTS - IN-VITRO INVESTIGATION OF ELECTROMAGNETIC-INTERFERENCE AT MR IMAGING-COMPATIBILITY AND SAFETY ASPECTS

In vitro experiments were performed to determine the compatibility of a cochlear implant at 0.2- and 1.5-T magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Except for the torque at 1.5 T, all electromagnetic interferences rema ined within acceptable limits. MR imaging should be performed only if there is a strong medical indication, by following appropriate safety procedures. MR imaging at 0.2 T should be safe; at 1.5 T, however, the relative risks will have to be assessed.