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Effects of high-intensity power-frequency electric fields on implanted modern multiprogrammable cardiac pacemakers
Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine
|May 1, 1982
Summary
Modern implanted pacemakers are unaffected by 50 Hz electric fields. This study found no interference with pacemaker function, even at high electric field intensities, ensuring patient safety near power lines.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Implanted pacemakers are crucial for cardiac rhythm management.
- Exposure to electromagnetic fields can potentially interfere with pacemaker function.
- Assessing the safety of modern pacemakers in common electromagnetic environments is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of 50 Hz electric fields on implanted multiprogrammable pacemakers.
- To determine if modern pacemakers are susceptible to interference from power line frequencies.
Main Methods:
- Ten patients with implanted pacemakers were exposed to 50 Hz electric fields up to 20 kV/m.
- Electrocardiograms were monitored using radiotelemetry during exposure.
- Pacemaker function, programmability, and output characteristics were assessed.
Main Results:
- No pacemakers were inhibited, triggered, or reverted to fixed rate operation.
- Programmable functions and output characteristics remained unaffected.
- Pacemakers correctly responded to induced changes in cardiac rate and rhythm.
Conclusions:
- Modern implanted pacemakers are not affected by 50 Hz electric fields encountered near power lines.
- The 'state of the art' pacemakers tested demonstrate robust performance in the presence of power-frequency electric fields.
- These findings support the safety of using modern pacemakers in environments with potential 50 Hz field exposure.
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