Tennessee regulators are investigating the death of a patient who became unresponsive following an MR exam at Premier Radiology in Brentwood.

The patient, who had both a pacemaker and an implantable cardiac defibrillator, underwent the MR on July 11, 2025. State investigators are examining whether the patient’s cardiac devices were properly placed into MR safe mode and whether clinic staff were adequately trained to respond to emergencies.

Records from the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission, obtained and reported by WSMV4 Investigates, indicate the patient reported difficulty breathing before the scan began. Investigators said staff members noted the patient appeared “red faced” during the procedure. After the MR concluded, the patient was found unresponsive.
A 911 call reviewed by WSMV4 captured staff attempting to use an automated external defibrillator, or AED, while struggling to connect the device’s pads.

The investigation also identified conflicting accounts regarding the patient’s implantable cardiac defibrillator settings. According to state records, clinic staff told investigators the devices had been placed into MR safe mode before the exam. However, the device manufacturer reportedly told investigators the defibrillator was not switched into MR safe mode until 37 minutes after the 911 call was placed.

Premier Radiology disputed that timeline in records reviewed by WSMV4, attributing the discrepancy to daylight saving time settings on the device.

MR safety expert Tobias Gilk filed a complaint with the state and told WSMV4 the records raise significant concerns about MR safety procedures for patients with implanted cardiac devices.

The Health Facilities Commission told the station there is sufficient evidence to support deficiencies and potential penalties against the clinic, though the investigation remains ongoing. Premier Radiology did not respond to requests for comment, according to the report.

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