Cochlear Implant MRI Safety — FRCA Final MCQ
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Correct answer: B — MR Safe but only at 1.5T
Most modern cochlear implants are classified as MR Conditional – they can undergo MRI under specific conditions defined by the manufacturer: typically 1.5T only (some newer devices are approved for 3T), specific head positioning, specific SAR limits, and sometimes external magnet removal before scanning. The implant card must be checked for the specific MRI safety conditions. Older cochlear implants may be MR Unsafe. The anaesthetist must communicate with the MRI team and ENT/audiology to confirm safety. Failure to follow manufacturer conditions can cause: device damage, internal magnet displacement, heating, and demagnetisation.
Reference: MHRA – 2021 – MRI safety guidelines; RCOA – 2023 – MRI anaesthesia