Security millimetre wave body scanner safe for patients with leadless pacemakers or subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillators

Authors: Patrick Blažek, Matthew J O'Connor, Severin Weigand, Christian Grebmer, Sebastian Reif, et al.

Year: 2020 Aug 29

Category: Cardiac Electrophysiology

Journal: J Interv Card Electrophysiol

DOI: 10.1007/s10840-020-00830-x

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860605/

Abstract

Overview

This study examined the effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI) from millimetre wave body scanners (MWBSs) on patients with rare cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), focusing specifically on leadless pacemakers and subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.

Methods

  • Patients: 73 individuals with specific CIEDs.
  • Procedure: Observational study with ECG monitoring during MWBS scanning.
  • Settings: Scans performed at recommended distances and in simulated accidental close exposures.

Findings

No negative EMI effects on device function during the scan, including:

  • No pacing inhibition in pacemaker patients.
  • No oversensing or spontaneous reprogramming in any patients.
  • Pacing and sensing thresholds stable; device eligibility unchanged post-scan.

Conclusion

No detected EMI events suggest that such security scans are safe for patients with the specified CIEDs, offering reassurance against potential risks and maintaining privacy concerning their medical devices.

EMI pacemakers cardioverter-defibrillators millimetre wave body scanners patient safety cardiac devices electromagnetic interference
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