Inappropriate ICD discharge induced by electrical interference from a physio-therapeutic muscle stimulation device

This report illustrates the case of a patient with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) who during physiotherapy with transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the lumbar musculature perceived a shock discharge by the ICD. Analysis of the stored electrogram showed inappropriate therapy due to electromagnetic interference with the external stimulation. Patients as well as physiotherapists should be informed about this potential interaction to avoid such iatrogenic, inappropriate ICD therapy.