Pacemaker function during helicopter transport.
A 71-year-old man had an increased pacemaker firing rate during helicopter transport. The increased rate, which resolved as soon as the engines were shut down, was thought to be due to the vibrations of the helicopter. We discuss the effect of vibration and electromagnetic force generated during helicopter transport on pacemakers. As the number of patients transported by air ambulances increases, the potential sequela must be recognized.
French
R S
RS
Emergency Medical Services, North Carolina Memorial Hospital, Chapel Hill 25714.
Tillman
J G
JG
D000368:Aged; D000401:Aircraft; D055590:Electromagnetic Phenomena / Q000009:adverse effects; D004868:Equipment Failure; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial; D014187:Transportation of Patients; D014732:Vibration / Q000009:adverse effects