Interference of 16.7-Hz electromagnetic fields on measured electrocardiogram.
The extent of electromagnetic interference (EMI) from 16.7-Hz alternate current power lines in the human surface electrocardiogram (ECG) was evaluated. Results showed a direct linear correlation between mean EMI and magnetic induction of 5.8-21 microT on a railroad platform (electric field: 270 V/m). EMI inside a railroad car (10 microT, 0 V/m) was comparable to the electromagnetic field at the platform. Inside a voltage transformer substation (0 microT, 2000 V/m) EMI occurred only when the ECG device was closer to the power line than the test person. Magnetic induction caused 16.7-Hz EMI to a degree that proper diagnosis of ECG-rhythms was rendered impossible.
Schlimp
Christoph J
CJ
Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Trauma Hospital Klagenfurt, Waidmannsdorferstrasse 35, Klagenfurt, Austria. c.schlimp@gmx.at
Breiteneder
Martin
M
Seifert
Johannes
J
Lederer
Wolfgang
W
D003951:Diagnostic Errors; D004559:Electric Wiring; D004562:Electrocardiography / Q000592:standards*; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011890:Railroads