What to Tell the Pain Team About Implanted Devices Before Imaging or Procedures

Short answer: implanted devices can affect imaging choices, procedure planning, positioning, and safety checks. Mention them before the day of imaging or an injection-style visit whenever possible.

Why this question matters

A device may need a model number, card, MRI compatibility review, medication-pump information, or coordination with another clinician. Orthopedic hardware is common and often safe, but it still helps the team understand anatomy and prior surgery.

Details worth bringing to the visit

pacemakers, defibrillators, nerve stimulators, pumps, ports, cochlear implants, or clips
joint replacements, spine hardware, or prior fusion levels
the device card, manufacturer, model, and implant date if known
who manages or checks the device
whether prior MRI or procedures were done safely with the device in place

How to use this information safely

If you are unsure whether something counts as an implant, mention it anyway. Device review is a safety step and does not automatically mean care cannot proceed.

Related PSG resources: pain management, lower back pain, and neck pain.

Sources include RadiologyInfo - MRI Safety, MedlinePlus - Pain, FDA - Medicines and You. This article is educational and cannot diagnose or replace individualized medical advice.

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