Related Experiment Videos
Electromagnetic interference of an implantable loop recorder by commonly encountered electronic devices
C C de Cock1, H J Spruijt, L M van Campen
1Department of Cardiology, University Hospital VU, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. cc.dcock@azvu.nl
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|November 4, 2000
Summary
Electromagnetic interference can affect implantable loop recorders (ILRs). Radiofrequency electronic article surveillance systems and magnetic resonance imaging pose potential risks, though interference is generally rare. Physicians should remain aware of possible device malfunctions.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is a known issue for pacemakers, potentially causing device malfunction.
- Implantable loop recorders (ILRs) are used to diagnose arrhythmic causes of syncope.
- The potential for EMI with ILRs requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the interference of electromagnetic sources on implantable loop recorder (ILR) function.
- To assess the impact of cellular phones, EAS, MDGs, and MRI on ILRs.
Main Methods:
- Tested two implanted and three non-implanted ILRs.
- Exposed devices to cellular phones (GSM), radiofrequency electronic article surveillance systems (RF EAS), metal detector gates (MDG), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Main Results:
- GSMs did not affect ILR function.
- RF EAS interfered with both implanted and non-implanted ILRs.
- MDGs had no influence on ILR function.
- MRI caused an irreversible error in one non-implanted ILR.
Conclusions:
- EMI with ILRs appears rare but possible.
- Physicians should be aware of potential ILR malfunctioning due to specific electromagnetic sources.
- RF EAS and MRI warrant particular attention regarding ILR safety.