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Pacemaker function during irradiation: in vivo and in vitro effect
Australasian Radiology
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Cancer patients with cardiac pacemakers can safely undergo radiotherapy. In vitro tests confirmed that gamma radiation from a 60 Cobalt machine did not affect pacemaker function, suggesting minimal risk during cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Oncology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Australia's ageing population increases the likelihood of cancer patients having cardiac pacemakers.
- Radiotherapy is a common cancer treatment that may pose risks to implanted medical devices.
- Ionizing radiation and electromagnetic interference effects on pacemakers require careful consideration.