[The influence of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on implantable cardiac medical devices].
AN INCREASINGLY FREQUENT PROBLEM: Since sources of electromagnetic interferences can alter the functioning of pacemakers (PM) and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ACD) are increasing and cover wide range of frequencies, from 0 to 300 GHz, including very low (VLF) and radio-frequencies (RF), carriers of such devices can suffer from decreased quality of life, without clinical impact, or even dangerous situations. PACEMAKERS: Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators are usually well protected from external interference. With pacemakers, such problems are handled fairly well and the consequences are usually benign. REGARDING DEFIBRILLATION: An interference can result in the inappropriate functioning of the device, the first consequence of which is an unexpected shock for the patient or, conversely, the lack of effective treatment when the patient most needs it. With ICD, the data in the literature suggest more attention should be paid, notably with anti-theft detector gates.
Souques
Martine
M
EDF-Gaz de France, Service des études médicales, 22-28 rue Joubert, 75009 Paris. martine.souques@edfgdf.fr
D017147:Defibrillators, Implantable; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial; D011788:Quality of Life; D012307:Risk Factors; D012637:Security Measures