A state investigation is underway following the death of a patient at Premier Radiology in Brentwood, Tennessee, after he underwent an MRI. The patient had both a pacemaker and an implantable cardiac defibrillator, which are generally considered safe during MRIs. However, he experienced breathing difficulties during the procedure and became unresponsive by its end. Reports indicate that both devices were supposed to be in MRI safe mode, but the defibrillator manufacturer stated it was not activated until 37 minutes after emergency services were called. The clinic disputes this, suggesting a time discrepancy. Additionally, emergency staff struggled to operate an AED due to inadequate training, as documented in a 911 call. Tobias Gilk, an MRI safety specialist, expressed alarm over the incident and noted several inconsistencies. The state has found enough evidence of deficiencies for potential penalties against the clinic, although no comments can be made until the investigation concludes. Gilk recommends individuals with pacemakers use hospital facilities for MRIs to ensure better emergency preparedness.
Wed, 13 May 2026 19:37:00 GMT | WSMV