Background: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in patients with Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices (CIEDs) remains a logistical challenge in many clinical settings. At Medical City Denton, the absence of a standardized institutional policy has led to significant inefficiencies, including prolonged hospital stays and increased healthcare costs. The primary objective of this project was to address these barriers by developing a streamlined, evidence-based protocol to improve care coordination and resource utilization for patients with CIEDs requiring diagnostic imaging.
Methods: Launched in 2026, this pilot initiative utilized a multi-stakeholder approach involving hospitalists, EPs, radiology staff, and device representatives. A core component of the intervention was the implementation of a new clinical algorithm designed to bypass the traditional EP consult for patients meeting specific safety criteria:
Device Status: Confirmed MRI-conditional device from Medtronic or Abbott. Lead Integrity: Chest X-ray (CXR) within the previous 5 months confirming no abandoned, retained, fractured, or epicardial leads.
Documentation: Verified patient consent and existing device documentation. The primary metrics for evaluating the pilot’s efficacy included hospital Length of Stay (LOS) and the "Time-to-Imaging" interval. Results: Already have established baseline year round data from 2025. Plan to implement new policy in February, 2026.
Conclusion: (Pending collecting data and result) Implementing a criteria-based algorithm for CIED-MRI clearance effectively reduces administrative delays without compromising patient safety. By delegating clearance for documented, stable Medtronic and Abbott systems to a standardized pathway, institutions can optimize specialist utilization and decrease the total cost of care. This pilot serves as a model for a planned division-wide rollout.

Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment
Cardiovascular Diseases
Diagnosis
Diseases
Equipment and Supplies
Health and Medical Administration
Internal Medicine
Medical Specialties
Medicine and Health Sciences
Quality Improvement