Shift from MRI Scans to CT Scans in WCMSAs for Claimants with Intrathecal Pumps
Posted January 14, 2017
In WCMSAs, it has become the standard to substitute CT scans in place of MRI scans for claimants with intrathecal pumps.
Intrathecal pumps are implanted programmable battery powered devices comprised of a pump and catheter in which medication is dispensed and carried directly to the spinal fluid (intrathecal space). In this method, less medication is necessary than if medication were taken orally, and fewer side effects are seen. The problem comes into play with MRI scanners utilizingstrong magnets which have the potential to interfere with the intrathecal pump motor.
On January 11, 2017, the FDA issued an FDA MedWatch Alert as part of their Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program, which warned of serious safety concerns regarding potential complications of patients with implanted infusion pumps undergoing MRI scans. Serious cases of injury and death have been reported as well as complications involving the intrathecal pump motor stalling or not restarting after the MRI exam. Medication dosing issues have also been cited as a result of exposure to the magnet. The FDA is working with the implant manufacturers to update their MRI safety information in hopes of reducing the likelihood of serious adverse events for those patients needing an MRI scan.
There has been recent developments of infusion pumps being labeled as MRI compatible; however, CT scans should continue to replace MRI scans in WCMSAs for diagnostic monitoring in claimants with intrathecal pumps.