What issue is most likely to occur when exposing a neurostimulator to RF?

When a neurostimulator is exposed to radiofrequency (RF) energy, the most significant concern that arises is the risk of burns. Neurostimulators typically contain conductive materials, such as metals, which can absorb RF energy. This absorption can lead to localized heating around the device. If the heat generated is sufficient, it can cause burns to the surrounding tissue, which can be a serious complication during an MRI procedure.

It is essential to consider that the presence of a neurostimulator, especially when it has metallic components, brings about risks not only related to heating but also to the potential disruption of the device’s function. However, the immediate concern when it comes to RF exposure is the tissue burn due to the heat produced from the interaction of RF with the metal components of the neurostimulator.

Other issues related to neurostimulators, such as magnetophosphenes (which are perceptions of light caused by magnetic fields), translational forces (which refer to unwanted movement due to magnetic attraction), and rotational forces (related to potential turning of the device), are significant but generally pose less immediate danger than the risk of burns. Therefore, the primary concern when dealing with RF exposure to neurostimulators is indeed the potential for burns to occur.