Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator-induced electrocardiogram artifact. A brief report
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University Medical School, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Summary
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can cause electrocardiogram (EKG) artifacts that mimic pacemaker spikes. Physicians must be aware of this potential complication to avoid misinterpreting TENS-induced electrical interference.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a widely used, well-tolerated pain management modality.
- Potential complications of TENS include cardiac pacemaker interference and electrocardiographic (EKG) artifact.
Observation:
- A case is presented where surface TENS electrodes applied to the thoracic and lumbar regions generated electrical signals.
- These signals created an EKG artifact that closely resembled pacemaker spikes on routine electrocardiograms.
Findings:
- The TENS unit's electrical output produced artifactual spikes on the EKG, leading to a misinterpretation of a malfunctioning cardiac pacemaker.
- This electrical interference highlights a specific type of artifactual EKG waveform caused by TENS.
Implications:
- Physician awareness of TENS-induced EKG artifact is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
- This complication underscores the importance of considering external electrical devices when interpreting cardiac monitoring data.
- Further investigation into the mechanisms and prevention of TENS-related EKG artifacts may be warranted.
