Getting MRI and CT Scans

Contact your doctor if you have any questions about how specific equipment will interact with your implanted medical device.

If you have a pacemaker or an ICD

You should not have an MRI. The extremely strong magnetic fields used in the diagnostic procedure could impair the ICD or pacemaker’s normal functions.

However, you can safely have a CT scan, chest and dental x-rays, diagnostic ultrasound, mammography and fluoroscopy.

Learn more about how your device may be affected by electromagnetic fields

Traveling with Your Device

In general, traveling with a pacemaker or ICD is safe and manageable. As with any part of scheduling a trip, it just takes good planning and preparation so that you can confidently enjoy your time away.

General Travel Advice

International Clinic Locator - Search for clinics in Europe, Africa, Canada and the Middle East that offer implantable cardiac device support for St. Jude Medical pacemakers, defibrillators, and CRT devices should you need assistance while you are traveling. Clinics in additional countries will be added in the future. We suggest you bookmark this page on your smartphone and be sure to talk with your doctor to identify any other issues before you go.

Airport Security Systems

Merlin@home™ Transmitter