Dysfunction of phrenic pacemakers induced by metallic rescue blankets.
Phrenic pacing can restore diaphragmatic contractions in patients with central respiratory paralysis. It relies on radiofrequency transmission of energy from an external unit to implanted receivers through circular coil antennas. The case of a patient is reported in whom severe hypoventilation occurred following the use of a metallic rescue blanket. The phenomenon was confirmed in two subsequent patients and during benchmark tests. Possible mechanisms include reflection and diffusion of high frequency waves by a Faraday-like effect. Patients with implanted devices relying on telemetric control or powering, and their care givers, should be warned against the use of metallic rescue sheets.
Service de Pneumologic et Réanimation, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtric e, Assistance Publique-H pitaux de Paris, France.
N
N
Boissel
L
L
Väänänen
J
J
Michoux
C
C
Straus
M
M
Fartoukh
J P
JP
Derenne
P P
PP
Talonen
T
T
Similowski
D000328:Adult; D001512:Bedding and Linens; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D007035:Hypothermia / Q000517:prevention & control; D007040:Hypoventilation / Q000209:etiology*; D008670:Metals; D010791:Phrenic Nerve; D012133:Respiratory Paralysis / Q000628:therapy; D014187:Transportation of Patients
D008670:Metals