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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
16:40
A New Single Chamber Implantable Defibrillator with Atrial Sensing: A Practical Demonstration of Sensing and Ease of Implantation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Analgesic patches and defibrillators: a cautionary tale
Martin R Brown1, Russell Denman, David Platts
1Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Unit, The Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside, QLD 4032, Australia. martin_brown@health.qld.gov.au
Summary
A patient experienced a dermal burn from a transdermal patch during an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) shock. This case highlights a new risk associated with combined ICD therapy and transdermal drug delivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are increasingly used for cardiac arrhythmia management.
- Transdermal drug delivery patches are common for various medical treatments.
- Previous reports link metal-containing transdermal patches to skin burns during MRI and external defibrillation.
Observation:
- This report details the first known case of a dermal injury occurring from the interaction between an ICD shock and a transdermal drug delivery patch.
- The patient sustained a skin burn at the site where the transdermal patch was placed directly over the ICD device.
Findings:
- The combination of an ICD shock and an overlying transdermal patch can lead to significant dermal burns.
- The specific composition of the transdermal patch and its placement relative to the ICD are critical factors.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for dermal burns when a transdermal patch is used in patients with an ICD.
- Careful consideration of transdermal patch placement is necessary to avoid adverse events during defibrillation.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms and to develop preventative strategies for this type of injury.
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