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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
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A New Single Chamber Implantable Defibrillator with Atrial Sensing: A Practical Demonstration of Sensing and Ease of Implantation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Electromagnetic interference from wireless video-capsule endoscopy on implantable cardioverter-defibrillators
Sergio Dubner1, Yael Dubner, Horacio Rubio
1Clinica Suizo Argentina, Argentina. dubner@ciudad.com.ar
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|April 18, 2007
Summary
The Pill-Cam video-capsule is safe for most patients with implanted cardio-defibrillators (ICDs). However, caution is advised with the Biotronik Belos ICD, requiring in-hospital monitoring and suspended therapy.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Implanted cardio-defibrillators (ICDs) are crucial for managing cardiac arrhythmias.
- The Pill-Cam video-capsule is widely used for gastrointestinal diagnostics.
- Potential electromagnetic interference between these devices requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the risk of interference between the Pill-Cam and various ICD models.
- To evaluate both in vitro and in vivo interactions.
Main Methods:
- In vitro testing involved 6 ICD models exposed to Pill-Cam-like emissions at varying distances and durations.
- In vivo study included 6 patients with ICDs undergoing Pill-Cam evaluation.
- Standardized testing protocols were employed for both phases.
Main Results:
- In vitro: 5 out of 6 ICDs showed normal function; one model (Biotronik Belos) exhibited oversensing and inappropriate therapy delivery.
- In vivo: No adverse interactions were observed in 6 patients during Pill-Cam use.
- A total of 864 in vitro tests and 288 in vivo tests were conducted.
Conclusions:
- Pill-Cam use is deemed safe for patients with tested ICDs that did not show interference.
- Patients with Biotronik Belos ICDs or untested models should use Pill-Cam only under close in-hospital monitoring with suspended ICD therapy.
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