Related Experiment Videos
Spinal cord stimulator activation by an antitheft device. Case report
1Pain Relief Unit, Rambam Medical Center, and The B. Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa.
Journal of Neurosurgery
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Uncontrolled activation of a cervical spinal cord stimulation device by an antitheft system caused central nervous system electrical injury. This resulted in significant, long-term neurological deficits.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a therapeutic modality for chronic pain.
- Improper device function or external interference can lead to adverse events.
- Cervical SCS devices are implanted to modulate neurological activity.
Observation:
- A case of central nervous system (CNS) electrical injury is reported.
- The injury stemmed from the unintended activation of an SCS device.
- An antitheft system was identified as the cause of the device malfunction.
Findings:
- Electrical injury to the CNS occurred due to uncontrolled SCS device activation.
- The event led to severe and persistent neurological sequelae.
- The interaction between antitheft technology and medical devices poses a risk.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for external devices to interfere with implanted medical technology.
- Underscores the need for robust safety protocols and device shielding.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering electromagnetic compatibility in device design and use.