[Can dental equipment interfere with correct functioning of an ICD?]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Dental Technology

Background:

• Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are crucial for managing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.
• Dental procedures may involve electromagnetic interference (EMI) sources that could affect ICD function.
• Assessing the safety of dental equipment for ICD patients is essential for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) risks posed by dental equipment to patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for dental professionals treating patients with ICDs.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of in vitro and in vivo studies published between 2000 and 2020.
• Analysis of 7 in vitro and 4 in vivo investigations examining ICD response to dental equipment EMI.
• Assessment of interference distances and device contraindications.

Main Results:

• The majority of dental equipment demonstrated no significant EMI risk during routine use in ICD patients.
• Piezoelectric and magnetostrictive scalers showed potential for EMI up to 20-45 cm in some cases.
• Electrotomes were identified as contraindicated for use in patients with ICDs.

Conclusions:

• Routine dental procedures with most equipment are generally safe for individuals with ICDs.
• Specific dental devices, such as piezoelectric/magnetostrictive scalers, require careful consideration and monitoring.
• Electrotome use should be avoided in patients with ICDs to prevent potentially hazardous EMI events.