Effects of medically generated electromagnetic interference from medical devices on cardiac implantable electronic devices: A review

Abstract

Overview

With the increasing prevalence of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), understanding the impacts of electromagnetic interference (EMI) from various sources has become crucial to ensure their safe operation.

Findings

• EMI can arise from both internal and external devices, as well as during medical procedures like endoscopy, bronchoscopy, and those involving electrocautery.
• This interference can potentially inhibit the function of pacing devices and even trigger shocks in implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD).
• The review broadly explores how different devices and procedures could affect pacemakers and defibrillators, in terms of documented effects and management of such interferences.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for more extensive studies as current guidelines on managing EMI impacts on CIEDs are mostly based on expert opinions and anecdotes. Moreover, this review attempts to provide a comprehensive breakdown of the function and management of device interference, calling for heightened awareness and better safety protocols.