User's Manual

Cardiac Airbag Technical Manual 11
1.4.7 Home and Occupational Hazards
Patients should be directed to avoid devices that generate strong
electromagnetic interference (EMI) or magnetic fields. EMI could
cause device malfunction or damage resulting in non-detection
or delivery of unneeded therapy. Moving away from the source
or turning it off will usually allow the ICD to return to its normal
mode of operation.
The following equipment (and similar devices) may affect normal
ICD operation: electric arc or resistance welders, electric melting
furnaces , r adio/television and radar transmitters,
power-generating facilities, high-voltage transmission lines, and
electrical ignition systems (of gasoline-powered devices) if
protective hoods, shrouds, etc., are removed.
1.4.8 Cellular Phones
Testing has indicated there may be a potential interaction
between cellular phones and BIOTRONIK ICD systems.
Potential effects may be due to either the cellular phone signal or
the magnet within the telephone and may include inhibition of
therapy when the telephone is within 6 inches (15 centimeters)
of the ICD, when the ICD is programmed to standard sensitivity.
Patients having an implanted BIOTRONIK ICD who operate a
cellular telephone should:
• Maintain a minimum separation of 6 inches
(15 centimeters) between a hand-held personal cellular
telephone and the implanted device.
• Set the telephone to the lowest available power setting,
if possible.
• Patients should hold the phone to the ear opposite the
side of the implanted device. Patients should not carry
the telephone in a breast pocket or on a belt over or
within 6 inches (15 centimeters) of the implanted device
as some telephones emit signals when they are turned
ON, but not in use (i.e., in the listen or stand-by mode).
Store the telephone in a location opposite the side of
implant.