Remote Programming of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices: A Novel
Approach to Program Cardiac Devices for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Abstract
Background Magnetic Resonance imaging (MRI) in patients (pts) with
MRI-conditional cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIED)
remain a logistical issue for device programming during the scan. In
current practice, a trained person needs to be present on-site to
program CIED for MRI scan. This can cause delay in patient care,
rescheduling of tests and increase healthcare costs. A novel remote
programming (RP) strategy can be utilized to reprogram the CIED
remotely. We sought to explore the feasibility and safety of RP of
CIED’s in pts undergoing MRI scan. Methods We implemented the Medtronic
CIED RP software at our institution after ensuring HIPAA compliance. The
MRI technician started the session by contacting an off-site remote
operator and placing a programmer wand from 2090 Medtronic programmer
over CIED. The remote operator logged into a remote access software and
provided a unique access code to the MRI technician. After entering the
access code into the programmer, the remote operator was able to program
the device as needed. We conducted a periodic audit of the first 209 pts
who underwent RP of CIED’s for MRI. Outcomes analyzed were safety
parameters during RP. Results Of the 209 MRI scans, 51 scans were
performed urgently. There were no connectivity and programming problems
or need for MRI rescheduling. In-person reprogramming was not required
for any pt. All scans were completed safely in a timely manner, and
there were no reports of CIED malfunction. Conclusions Remote
programming of CIED’s for MRI scans is a safe and effective strategy.