The invention is directed to structure and methods for coordinating the operation of an implantable medical device (IMD) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. For example the IMD can be made to activate a blanking period during the time when the electromagnetic radiation bursts occur. Blanking an IMD at times when MRI electromagnetic radiation bursts occur can prevent an undesirable action or incorrect sensing by the IMD while under the influence of the electromagnetic radiation bursts.