Is it safe to have a MRI, CT Scan or X-Ray with a Cochlear Implant?

We are often asked if it’s safe to have different types of medical imaging done with a cochlear implant, and the answer is yes – but there are some things you need to know first.

X-Ray and CT Scans

Having an X-ray or a CT scan is safe and easy to do.

We do recommend that you check the website of your individual cochlear implant manufacturer to check for any specifics relating to your device.

The rule of thumb is to follow the instructions from your radiographer. Don’t assume that they have seen that you have a cochlear implant or read about it in your file. Always tell them. You will likely be asked to remove the external part of your cochlear implant the speech processor before you can have the X-ray or CT.

Be sure that you tell the person performing the scan that you can’t hear when you’re not wearing your speech processor. So if they have specific instructions for you they should tell you before you remove it. This will be the same if you’re having an X-ray at the dentist as well.

MRIs

The MRI machine uses magnets, your implant also has a magnet so there are some specific instructions you need to know before having an MRI.

In the early day of cochlear implants, you couldn’t always have an MRI. There have been advances in technology so this isn’t always true now. It’s important to know that cochlear implants are MRI conditional. This means that there are specific instructions to follow when having an MRI based on the make and model of your cochlear implant. However, if it’s possible to have an X-ray or a CT scan instead of an MRI, this should be the option. Always check with your specialist.

If an MRI is the only option, we recommend in all cases that the radiology department contact SCIP for specific information about your cochlear implant make and model.

They can phone or email SCIP for this. SCIP will send the manufacturer’s instructions and any relevant equipment to the radiology department at no cost.