Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
& Brigham & Women’s Hospital
ICD Patient Support Group
The 411 on iPODs:
Electromagnetic Interference and Devices
Pacemaker Interference with iPOD MP3
Players
Jay P. Thaker, Mehul B. Patel, MD, Haiyan Li, MD, Sujeeth R.Punnam, MD and
Krit Jongnarangsin, MD. Michigan State University, Lansing, MI and University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
Results:
83 patients “tested” by placing iPOD directly over the
pacemaker from 5-10 seconds while turning it on and off
Over Sensing was seen in 20% (~17 patients) > 50% of the
time the devices interacted
Telemetry Interference in 29% (~24 patients) > 50% of the
time the devices interacted
Transient Pacemaker Inhibition in 1.2% (1 patient)
None of the patients reported any symptoms
Conclusions:
We found interference in 50% of patients. Our observations are
disconcerting because implantable pacemakers have become
commonplace worldwide and the iPod has become an ubiquitous
personal digital entertainment device. Other MP3 players may also
possibly interact with pacemakers.
Recent headlines
…
Keep your ICD at least
6 inches from all of the
previously listed devices.