Electromagnetic interference with cardiac pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators from low-frequency electromagnetic fields in vivo

Abstract

Magnetic fields with intensities as high as those used in this study are rare even in industrial working environments. In most cases, employees can return to work after implantation of a bipolar pacemaker or an ICD, after an appropriate risk assessment. Pacemakers programmed to unipolar configurations can cause danger to their users in environments with high electromagnetic fields, and should be avoided, if possible.

Device–Device Interference of a Bipolar Spinal Cord Stimulator With a Bipolar Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator

“…Because the distance between the ICD and spinal cord stimulator was much shorter compared with the peripheral nerve stimulator or electroacupuncture sites, this supports the hypothesis that interference is more likely when the electromagnetic field from a neuromodulating device is in closer proximity to sensing electrodes of a pacemaker or ICD (10). Recent research has demonstrated bipolar ICDs or permanent pacemakers may be safely exposed to high intensity external magnetic fields without interference (11). Further study is needed to determine compatibility of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices with close proximity neurostimulation.…”

Correlation of Geomagnetic Activity With Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Shocks and Antitachycardia Pacing

“…21 Usually a magnetic flux density of 100 micro-Tesla is considered to be the safety level for pacemakers and ICDs, 22 and studies of static magnetic fields have shown that no changes in terms of rate or rhythm of the heart were seen in experiments with animals or humans with the use of up to 8 Tesla. 23 …”

Searching for the Perfect Wave: The Effect of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields on Cells

“…Scientists are trying to answer all calls for specific categories’ interaction with environmental or professional RF exposure. Geographical location [90,94,95], occupational groups [96,97], sections of the population [98] such as children and youngsters [99,100] or pregnant women [101] are only several elements that have been investigated in a cohort of voluntary subjects participating in research or clinical studies, or considered in informative epidemiologic meta-analysis [102] surveys. Moreover, the impacts of diagnostic devices such as magnetic resonance scanners that emit RF were analyzed [103].…”