Gcwalisile Moyo, MRI Service Lead, said: “MRI uses a large, circular magnet and radio waves to produce clear computer images of almost any part of the body. The images can then be used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of acute and long-term conditions, meaning many patients with pacemakers may require this type of imaging during their care.
“Historically it was considered unsafe for patients with pacemakers to go into an MRI scanner because it could potentially prevent the device from working properly, due to its metal content, and potentially cause harm to the patient.
“Thanks to our highly skilled teams working together, along with support and training from pacemaker manufacturers and the introduction of a new MRI scanner, we are now able to place the device into MRI-safe mode, ensuring the scanner’s magnetic field does not interfere with the pacemaker’s function.
“Once the scan is complete, the device is reviewed and returned to normal settings and then tested to check it is working correctly after the scan.”
Since launching in October 2024, 116 patients with pacemakers have benefited from the service.
Angela Beswick, Chief Cardiac Physiologist, added: “One of the reasons we developed this dedicated pathway is that the number of patients in Medway and Swale fitted with pacemakers has increased significantly over recent years, meaning demand for MRI scans within this patient group has also risen.
“The benefits for patients include reduced waiting times, as well as reduced travel time and costs, as they are getting quicker access to the scans they need closer to home.
“It is a fantastic example of teams working together to provide excellent, accessible healthcare for local communities while reducing the need for patients to travel outside Medway for specialist procedures.”
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