Lawn bowling and potential interference of a cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED): case report

Cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), including cardiac pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, are extensively utilized across diverse patient populations. These devices are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which may result in functional disturbances such as pacing inhibition, misinterpretation of extraneous signals as intrinsic cardiac activity, or inappropriate mode switching. Neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets, known for their high magnetic flux density, are commonly employed in various industrial and consumer applications. This case report highlights a previously undocumented source of EMI-namely, the magnet embedded in lawn bowling equipment-and its potential to disrupt CIED functionality. The underlying mechanism of interference is examined, and recommendations for risk mitigation and patient safety are proposed.