Cochlear implant user perceptions of magnetic resonance imaging

Dewey, R. S.; Kitterick, P. T.

Abstract

Objectives

To characterise opinions about needing to undergo MRI within the population of current cochlear implant (CI) users.

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of CI users is often associated with severe discomfort and magnet displacement.
Methods

A global online survey of 310 CI users was conducted between 22nd July and 13th September 2020.

Results

Only 55% of respondents had been told whether their model of CI could undergo MRI. 31% of respondents considered MRI when deciding whether to receive a CI, and 28% when deciding which CI model to have. 64% reported concerns related to their CI if needing MRI compared to 29% reporting concerns unrelated to their CI. Willingness to undergo MRI reduced when considering magnet removal, splinting, bandaging, local anaesthesia, lasting discomfort, an inability to use their CI, or a reduction in image quality because of their CI. The single most influential factor was the possibility of damaging their CI (63%). 59% of respondents would consider minor surgery to upgrade their retaining magnet to one of a rotating design.

Discussion

These findings highlight the heterogeneity of CI users’ opinions about MRI.

Conclusion

We suggest several opportunities for improving the dissemination of current and accurate MRI-related information for CI users.

Citation

Dewey, R. S., & Kitterick, P. T. (2022). Cochlear implant user perceptions of magnetic resonance imaging. Cochlear Implants International, 23(1), 11-20. https://doi.org/10.1080/14670100.2021.1954748

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jul 8, 2021
• Online Publication Date: Jul 27, 2021
• Publication Date: Jan 2, 2022
• Deposit Date: Jul 8, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 28, 2022
• Journal: Cochlear Implants International
• Print ISSN: 1467-0100
• Electronic ISSN: 1754-7628
• Publisher: Maney Publishing
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 23
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 11-20
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14670100.2021.1954748
• Keywords: Cochlear implants; Magnetic resonance imaging; Safety; User consultation; Patient perceptions; Diagnostic medical imaging
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/5487357
• Publisher URL: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14670100.2021.1954748?src=&journalCode=ycii20
• Additional Information: Peer Review Statement: The publishing and review policy for this title is described in its Aims & Scope.; Aim & Scope: http://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=aimsScope&journalCode=ycii20; Published: 2021-07-27