User's Manual

10 Cardiac Airbag Technical Manual
External Defibrillation - The device is protected against energy
normally encountered from external defibrillation. However, any
implanted device may be damaged by external defibrillation
procedures. In addition, external defibrillation may also result in
permanent myocardial damage at the electrode-tissue interface as
well as temporary or permanent elevated pacing thresholds. When
possible, observe the following precautions:
• Position the adhesive electrodes or defibrillation paddles
of the external defibrillator anterior-posterior or along a
line perpendicular to the axis formed by the implanted
device and the heart.
• Set the energy to a level not higher than is required to
achieve defibrillation.
• Place the paddles as far as possible away from the
implanted device and lead system.
• After delivery of an external defibrillation shock,
interrogate the ICD to confirm device status and proper
function.
Lithotripsy - Lithotripsy may damage the ICD. If lithotripsy must
be used, avoid focusing near the ICD implant site.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) - Do not expose a patient
to MRI device scanning. Strong magnetic fields may damage
the device and cause injury to the patient.
Radiation - High radiation sources such as cobalt 60 or gamma
radiation should not be directed at the pulse generator. If a
patient requires radiation therapy in the vicinity of the pulse
generator, place lead shielding over the device to prevent
radiation damage and confirm its function after treatment.
Radio Frequency Ablation - Prior to performing an ablation
procedure, deactivate the ICD during the procedure. Avoid
applying ablation energy near the implanted lead system
whenever possible.