# Pacemaker with automatic activation of a magnetic resonance imaging mode: A single-center experience

**Authors:** Bridget McIlraith, Justin A. Mariani, Ross Downey, Geoffrey Clare, Matthew Daly, Houda El Banna, Ian Crozier

PMC · DOI: 10.1016/j.ahjo.2026.100732 · American Heart Journal Plus: Cardiology Research and Practice · 2026-01-28

## TL;DR

A new pacemaker feature automatically adjusts for MRI scans, eliminating the need for manual reprogramming and improving efficiency.

## Contribution

Introduces an always-on MRI workflow feature that automatically adjusts pacemaker settings during scans.

## Key findings

- Five MRI procedures were successfully completed without manual device reprogramming.
- The MRI Guard 24/7 feature automatically switched to MRI mode and reverted afterward.
- The feature reduces staffing demands and improves access to timely imaging for patients with pacemakers.

## Abstract

In patients with permanent pacemakers, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) traditionally requires resource-intensive manual device reprogramming before and after the scan putting demands on clinical resources.

In this single-center case series, we report five MRI procedures in three patients with a pacemaker using an always-on MRI workflow facilitating feature (MRI Guard 24/7) that automatically detects MRI conditions and adjusts the pacing mode without the need for pre- or post-scan checks.

All scans were completed successfully, with automatic switching into MRI mode and reverting to the permanent setting. No device reconfigurations were required pre- or post-scan.

We discuss the potential of this feature to streamline MRI workflows, reduce staffing demands and improve access to timely imaging for patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices.

## Full-text entities

- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

5 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12882704/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12882704