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Electromagnetic interference with pacemakers caused by portable media players
Jay P Thaker1, Mehul B Patel, Krit Jongnarangsin
1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Heart Rhythm
|March 11, 2008
Summary
iPods placed near pacemakers can cause interference. This study found that 51% of patients experienced interference, with iPods emitting signals in the pacemaker frequency range when on and connected to headphones.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiology
- Electromagnetics
Background:
- Electrical devices generate electromagnetic fields that can interfere with pacemakers.
- Portable media players, like iPods, are increasingly common and often carried near the chest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether iPods cause interference with cardiac pacemakers.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, single-blinded study involving 100 pacemaker patients tested with four iPod models.
- Pacemakers were monitored via ECG and programmer telemetry while iPods were placed 2 inches away.
- Testing simulated real-world use with headphones, maximum volume, and no equalizer; electromagnetic emissions were also measured.
Main Results:
- 51% of patients and 20% of tests showed interference; Type I (rate histogram) in 19%, Type II (no rate counter effect) in 32%.
- Interference was reproducible across different pacing configurations, modes, and days.
- Maximum iPod emissions occurred in the pacemaker carrier frequency range when the device was on with headphones attached.
Conclusions:
- iPods positioned within 2 inches of implanted pacemakers can cause significant interference.
- This interference is linked to electromagnetic emissions from the iPods, particularly when in use with headphones.
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