New-generation electronic appliances and cardiac implantable electronic devices: a systematic literature review of mechanisms and in vivo studies

Authors: Kewcharoen J, Shah K, Bhardwaj R, Contractor T, Turagam MK, Mandapati R, Lakkireddy D, Garg J

Year: 2024 Mar 5

Category: Cardiac Electrophysiology

Journal: J Interv Card Electrophysiol

DOI: 10.1007/s10840-024-01777-z

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38443707/

Abstract

Overview

Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are vulnerable to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from exposure to various electromagnetic fields (EMF), a growing concern due to proliferation of new-generation electronic appliances (EA). However, data regarding the EMI risk from such modern devices is sparse.

Objective

The purpose of this systematic literature review was to examine mechanisms of EMI, assess current evidence, and analyze recently published trials evaluating the effect of EMF emitted by sources such as electric vehicles (EVs), smartphones, and smartwatches on CIEDs, summarizing available safety data.

Methods

  • Electronic databases including PubMed and EMBASE were searched for in vivo studies focusing on EMF strength and incidence of EMI between CIEDs and commercial EVs, new-generation smartphones, and smartwatches.

Findings

  • Ten studies met criteria (three related to EVs, five on smartphones, one on smartwatches, and one on both smartphones and smartwatches).
  • No incidence of EMI was reported for EVs or smartwatches.
  • Magnet-containing smartphones (notably iPhone 12) can cause EMI if placed directly over CIEDs, potentially triggering magnet mode. EMI was not observed with other placements or smartphone models.

Conclusion

Current evidence supports the general safety of CIED recipients when interacting with EVs/HEVs, smartphones, and smartwatches (Note: Despite these findings, the connection between EMF exposure and CIED interference is crucial and warrants attention, particularly with magnet-equipped devices and new EMF technologies). However, these results apply strictly to the brands and models evaluated in published research, with limited data available on wireless charging in EVs and on MagSafe-enabled smartphones.

electromagnetic fields cardiac implantable electronic devices EMI electric vehicles smartphones smartwatches safety
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