Electromagnetic interference of implantable cardiac devices from a shoulder massage machine

Abstract

Shoulder massage machines have two pads that are driven by solenoid coils to perform a per cussive massage on the shoulders. There have been concerns that such machines might create electromagnetic interference (EMI) in implantable cardiac devices because of the time-varying magnetic fields produced by the alternating current in the solenoid coils. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential EMI from one such shoulder massage machine on implantable cardiac devices. We measured the distribution profile of the magnetic field intensity around the massage machine. Furthermore, we performed an inhibition test and an asynchronous test on an implantable cardiac pacemaker using the standardized Irnich human body model. We examined the events on an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) using a pacemaker programmer while the massage machine was in operation. The magnetic field distribution profile exhibited a peak intensity of 212 (A/m) in one of the solenoid coils. The maximal interference distance between the massage machine and the implantable cardiac pacemaker was 28 cm. Ventricular fibrillation was induced when the massage machine was brought near the electrode of the ICD and touched the Irnich human body model. It is necessary to provide a "don't use" warning on the box or the exterior of the massage machines or in the user manuals and to caution patients with implanted pacemakers about the dangers and appropriate usage of massage machines.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the thighs in cardiac patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators

“…Therefore, there is an existing and remaining concern of whether NMES can be applied in these patients, due to fear of electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMI can cause oversensing and lead to inappropriate therapies in ICD patients, resulting in arrhythmias and/or painful shocks [22–24]. These patients are generally advised to avoid exposure to electrical currents and electromagnetic sources, even though ICDs seem to be less sensitive to interference than pacemakers [25].…”

Efficient reduction of EMI from massage and its improvement

“…Now that there is a current or voltage change, when massage works, the unit will emit EM radiation power disturbance [9]. In view of the actual space, as shown in Fig.…”

Possibilities and safety measures for the use of physiotherapy in patients with implanted antiarrhythmic devices

“…При анализе причин ЭМИ выделяют пациент-связанные факторы, характеристики физиотерапевтического метода и факторы, связанные с техническими свойствами ИАУ. Так, при определении риска ЭМИ и ее последствий для пациентов, нуждающихся в физиотерапии, необходимо оценить ЭКС-зависимость пациента с помощью пробы с временным отключением ЭКС [23,30] [44,45]. Однако описаны единичные клинические наблюдения, демонстрирующие возникновение ЭМИ, индуцированной ЧЭНС.…”