S Joosten et al 2009 Phys. Med. Biol. 54 591 doi:10.1088/0031-9155/54/3/008
S Joosten, K Pammler and J Silny
Show affiliationsThe problem of electromagnetic interference of electronic implants such as cardiac pacemakers has been well known for many years. An increasing number of field sources in everyday life and occupational environment leads unavoidably to an increased risk for patients with electronic implants. However, no obligatory national or international safety regulations exist for the protection of this patient group. The aim of this study is to find out the anatomical and physiological worst-case conditions for patients with an implanted pacemaker adjusted to unipolar sensing in external time-varying electric fields. The results of this study with 15 volunteers show that, in electric fields, variation of the interference voltage at the input of a cardiac pacemaker adds up to 200% only because of individual factors. These factors should be considered in human studies and in the setting of safety regulations.
87.80.-y Biophysical techniques (research methods)
87.50.C- Static and low-frequency electric and magnetic fields effects
Issue 3 (7 February 2009)
Received 7 August 2008, in final form 30 October 2008
Published 6 January 2009
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