Electromagnetic Interference of the Cellular Phones on the Implantable Cardioverter-Defribillators

pp 317-320

Abstract

Background

Studies recently published have demonstrated the importance of the implantable cardioverter defibrillators as an accurate therapeutics in the treatment of malignant ventricular arrhythmias. However there is no much information about how this therapeutics modifies the quality of life. During the last years the use of cellular phones has in-creased and nowadays its use is more frequent. Our aim is to evaluate if analogic cellular phones (available in our country) are able to generate electromagnetic interference in the defibrillators.

Material and method

Twenty five patients implanted with different models of defibrillators were evaluated. Telephone calls from and to the cellular phone were made contacting the phones with the implant area.

Results

Only one patient presented electromagnetic interference when contacting the antenna with the implant area. There was a record absence in the marker channel and in the intracardiac electrogram, with a record in the surface electrocardiogram.

Conclusion

We conclude that analogic cellular phones could cause electromagnetic interference but rarely with clinical events. Likewise it is advisable to carry and use the phone opposite the implant area.