Understanding safety
An MRI is a diagnostic test that uses a strong electromagnetic field to produce images of the human body. MRI Safety testing has shown that Boston Scientific’s coronary stents are MR Conditional and patients with our stents can get an MRI scan safely under certain conditions listed on your Stent Implant Card.
Important: Before getting an MRI scan, be sure to tell your doctor and the MRI technologist that you have a coronary stent so they can take all necessary safety precautions.
Taking your medication
After your procedure, your cardiologist may prescribe medications to thin your blood and prevent blood clots from forming and adhering to the surface of the stent. You should not stop taking these medications unless you are asked to do so by your doctor. If you stop taking these medications before being instructed to do so by your cardiologist, the chances of blood clot formation on the stent, subsequent heart attack, or even death are increased. If surgery or dental work is recommended which would require you to stop taking these medications prematurely, you and your doctor should carefully consider the risks and benefits of this additional surgery or dental work versus the possible risks from early discontinuation of these medications. If you do require premature discontinuation of these medications because of significant bleeding, your cardiologist will carefully monitor you for possible complications. Once your condition has stabilized, your cardiologist will probably put you back on these medications.
Talk to your doctor
If you need medical or dental treatment, tell your dentist or doctor you have a stent and show them your Stent Implant Card. Your care team can contact your heart specialist and to find a treatment that works best for you and your device.