Medical Professionals

 As a cardiologist, you need to know about electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can affect your patients’ implanted heart rhythm devices

Electromagnetic fields are invisible lines of force resulting from a combination of: 

  • Electrical fields (produced by voltage)
  • Magnetic fields (produced by current flow)

 

Boston Scientific Logo                       Medtronic CRM, heart device recommendations                            St. Jude Medical for Cardiac Devices

The following are potential device behaviors that may occur as a result of exposure to electromagnetic fields. 

Potential device behaviors ICDs/ CRT-Ds Pacemakers /CRT-Ps
Asynchronous pacing
(pacing independent of underlying cardiac activity)		 ■ ■
Inhibition of pacing
(pacing therapy not provided when needed)		 ■ ■
Ventricular pacing at Maximum Tracking Rate ■ ■
Inhibition of tachyarrhythmia therapy
(shock therapy not provided when needed)		 ■  
Inappropriate shocks
(shock therapy provided when not needed)		 ■  
Deactivation of tachyarrhythmia therapy* ■  


EMI testing of  patients’ home and workplace environments , performed in accordance with the medical device manufacturer’s established guidelines, can enhance patient outcomes in terms of: 

  • Safety at home
  • Return to work post-implantation
In most cases, EMI testing will assist the employer to determine areas of concern within the facility and to make modifications to create a safe and healthy workplace for the heart device user and to comply with ADA requirements.
ADA is the Americans With Disabilities Act, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the first federal civil rights law to deal broadly and specifically with the rights of disabled citizens. Since its passage in 1990, the ADA has had a huge impact on American society.

EMF Testing USA meticulously measures electromagnetic interference with the patient’s heart device,  at both the patient’s home and workplace.  The resulting report provides the medical professional with data showing potential problem areas, and ways to minimize patient exposure to electromagnetic fields.  Recommendations are designed to ensure compliance with device manufacturers’ guidelines and to provide a healthy and safe environment for the patient.