Bryan Heart First in Region to Treat Sudden Cardiac Arrest with MRI-Safe Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Doctors at Bryan Heart are the first in the region to treat patients who suffer from sudden cardiac arrest with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) system that is compatible with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The Medtronic Evera MRI SureScan ICD System is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is authorized for MRI scans on patients who depend on life-saving ICD systems. Until now, individuals with these devices have not been allowed to receive MRI scans because of potential harmful interactions between the ICD and MRI units. Data has shown that, within four years of receiving an ICD, more than one-third of patients are likely to need an MRI.
“Patients at risk for sudden cardiac arrest have long relied on ICDs to monitor their hearts, detect dangerous arrhythmias and deliver life-saving therapy when needed,” said Dr. Michael Kutayli, Bryan Heart cardiologist and the first physician in Nebraska to implant the device. “In addition, many of these patients also need access to MRIs, so the approval of an ICD that can be used in an MRI environment is crucial. Bryan Heart is excited to offer this inpatient procedure and provide individuals with the peace of mind that they are receiving the best care available.”
The Medtronic Evera MRI SureScan ICD System includes hardware and software design enhancements from previous generation devices that allow it to safety undergo full-body MRIs. The latest version features a contoured shape to reduce skin pressure, industry-leading battery longevity, exclusive shock reduction technology and enhanced diagnostics to identify patients at risk of worsening heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
The FDA approval of the Medtronic Evera MRI SureScan ICD System was based on safety data, efficiency statistics and comprehensive computer modeling that resulted in critical regulatory approval. The findings demonstrated the system is safe and effective, and that full-body MRI scans did not affect its ability to deliver life-saving therapy.
Bryan Heart includes a team of highly skilled, board certified doctors, surgeons and specialists dedicated to the diagnoses and treatment of a range of heart and vascular conditions. With outreach clinics in over 30 communities across Nebraska and the Midwest, Bryan Heart provides expert care to restore, maintain and improve the lives of people throughout the region.
