[Magnetic resonance imaging and implantable cardiac devices. Current status and future perspectives of MR-compatible systems].

Conventional pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD) have always been regarded as a contraindication to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MR-compatible systems represent a recent and particularly important innovation, since they will provide device patients with significantly improved access to MR examinations. However, the safe application of MR-compatible technology requires a detailed understanding of the strictly defined cardiologic and radiologic requirements and conditions that are to be adhered to before and during an MR examination. The present article gives an overview of problematic MR interactions with implanted devices, illustrates the most important aspects of MR-compatible pacemaker and ICD systems, analyzes their current clinical status, and offers a critical perspective.