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Hyfrecation and Interference With Implantable Cardiac Devices.
Sima D Amin1, Katie B Homan2, Manish Assar3
1Texas A&M College of Medicine, College Station, Texas.
Summary
Electrosurgery using hyfrecators during dermatologic procedures is safe for patients with pacemakers and implantable cardiac devices. This study found no adverse events or device malfunctions in patients undergoing these common procedures.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Electrosurgery, including hyfrecation, is frequently used in dermatologic procedures for hemostasis.
- In vitro studies suggest electrosurgery is safe for patients with cardiac devices, but in vivo data are lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and outcomes of hyfrecation during dermatologic procedures in patients with pacemakers and implantable cardiac devices.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 45 patients with cardiac devices who underwent electrosurgery with a Hyfrecator.
- Evaluation of adverse perioperative/postoperative outcomes and device malfunction.
Main Results:
- No adverse perioperative effects were reported in patients undergoing hyfrecation.
- Device monitoring revealed no instances of inappropriate defibrillator firing, loss of capture, pacing inhibition, battery issues, or arrhythmias.
Conclusions:
- Hyfrecation appears safe for patients with cardiac devices, with no observed complications.
- Further prospective and larger retrospective studies are recommended to confirm these findings.
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