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[Electromagnetic interference between automatic defibrillators and digital and analog cellular telephones]
A Jiménez1, A Hernández Madrid, J Pascual
1Unidad de Arritmias, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Alcalá de Henares, Madrid.
Revista Espanola De Cardiologia
|June 30, 1998
Summary
Mobile phones, both digital and analog, do not pose a clinically significant risk to implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). Studies show no evidence of device inhibition or inappropriate therapies, suggesting safe usage with precautions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Mobile phone interference with pacemakers is known, but its effect on implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) is less understood.
- Both analog and digital mobile phone systems may influence ICD function, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the influence of digital and analog mobile phones on the performance of various ICD models.
- To determine if mobile phones cause significant interference with ICD sensing, pacing, or therapeutic functions in both in vivo and in vitro settings.
Main Methods:
- Standardized testing setup with high sensitivity to detect subtle interferences.
- Utilized in vivo (patients) and in vitro (saline tank with arrhythmia simulator) models.
- Tested multiple mobile phone types and models, varying transmission power and proximity to the ICD and electrode.
Main Results:
- Partial loss of telemetry observed in some patients (14/total), with minor alterations in ECG channels.
- In vitro testing confirmed normal ICD function during simulated arrhythmias.
- No instances of real oversensing/undersensing, ICD reprogramming, pacing inhibition, or inappropriate therapies were documented.
Conclusions:
- Clinically significant electromagnetic interference from mobile phones (digital or analog) was not demonstrated in this study.
- ICD function remains unaltered even during spontaneous arrhythmias, as confirmed by in vitro models.
- Mobile phone use is considered safe for ICD patients, with a recommendation to maintain a distance of at least 15 cm from the device.