Pacemakers (NOT Jerry and the...)

[dwillis45]

Anyone have any knowledge regarding heart pacemakers in a studio setting?

I know that pacemakers are affected by strong sources of power (arc welding equipment, for example) and strong magnetic fields. I also know that they should be kept away from speakers. I've read that to alter pacemaker function, a magnet has to have a field strength of 10 gauss or greater next to the surface of the device. I've also read that a magnet in a stereo speaker has a field strength of 100 gauss at the surface but 0 gauss 6 inches away.
I assume that this applies to studio monitors but I'm not sure if there are differences between typical speakers and monitors. I'm also not sure about other sources that might be found in a typical studio. Any thought would be helpful. Thanks.

[grinder]

Many studio monitors are said to be magnetically shielded, for use near video monitors. I can't offer any more info than that, though. I know microwave ovens are a big no no.

[dwillis45]

Grinder: Thanks for the input on shielded monitors. Microwave ovens are actually much better than they used to be and new models are not a problem for ordinary usage.

Anyone else have any thoughts or suggestions? Any Doc's out there who record? Any engineering experts who can guide me on EMI and pacemakers?

[crazydoc]

What devices interfere with pacemaker operation?
There are many myths about electrical devices that could interfere with pacemaker operation. Home security systems, for example, do not pose a significant risk to people with pacemakers (although patients who are concerned can contact the system manufacturer for further reassurance). Furthermore, most common household appliances in good repair such as microwaves, cordless phones, electric blankets, electric shavers, CB and HAM radios, heating pads, televisions and remote controls, computers and hair dryers do not pose a significant risk to pacemaker operation. While some of these devices have been found to cause interference with an occasional single beat, they have not been found to change or inhibit pacing rates. Patients should discuss their concerns regarding these or other devices with their physicians. It is also vital that patients inform their health care providers about their pacemaker before any medical or dental procedure is done.

Although newer pacemakers have better insulation that makes them less susceptible to interference, some devices can still affect pacemaker operation. While this interference is rarely life threatening, caution is recommended around the following:

* Metal detectors. In airports, courthouses or other high-security areas, patients should present their identification card and request to be hand-searched. They should not walk through the metal detector or allow a hand-held wand to be waved over the chest area because it could temporarily interfere with the function of the pacemaker. Metal detectors are also used as security devices in retail stores and are sometimes not visible near doorways. While reports of problems from these devices are rare, the Food and Drug Administration recommends that individuals with pacemakers avoid leaning against or lingering near store security gates or entrances.

* Cellular phones. When held near the ear, cell phones rarely cause interference with pacemakers. In a recent study, however, the phones did interfere with about 13 percent of patients when placed directly over the pacemaker implantation site. Interference varies depending on the model types of both the pacemaker and the cell phone. The risk of interference is greater with digital cell phones and dual-chamber pacemakers. To avoid interference, patients should hold the cell phone at least 6 inches from the pacemaker generator at all times, even when the phone is turned off. It is advisable to use a cell phone with the ear on the side of the body opposite to the pacemaker.

* Magnetic resonance imaging test (MRI). The magnetic fields and radio fields generated during this diagnostic test can significantly affect pacemaker function, with potentially lethal consequences. Patients should avoid these tests and the machines that perform them.

* Strong electrical fields. Patients should avoid any areas or equipment that generate strong electrical fields. These include (but are not limited to) amusement park rides and attractions, power plants, junkyards that use large magnets, stereo speakers (when held close to the pacemaker) or poorly shielded car engines. Patients should also never work on automobile engines when they are running. Patients should discuss their concerns regarding these or other devices with their physicians.

The above is from www.heartcenteronline.com and is physician edited.
I think if a pacemaker user can avoid hugging his speakers or equipment transformers, there should be no problem.

[dwillis45]

Crazydoc: Thanks for the reply. It's pretty consistent with the other on-line materials I've seen.

I was concerned that there might be something in a typical studio that may not have been encountered by the device industry or electrophysiologists. Monitors came to mind immediately followed by transformers and other power supplies. Then, being slightly paranoid, I started worring about guitar pickups, which are magnetic and positioned very close to the average user.

I guess your "hugging rule" is a good place to start. I've heard similar advice including the "six inch rule." And, of course, I'll have a conversation with my cardiologist and electrophysiologist about these issues. Again, thanks for the input.

[crazydoc]

I don't think there would be any significant magnetic fields in a studio - they would play havoc with the mics and other magnetically sensitive equipment. Optical transducers for mics are being developed for use for communications in MRI facilities because of problems posed for electrical transducers.

I wouldn't worry about anything in the studio. If you do have any problems, send us a message from the hereafter so we can warn others.

[hapnurse]

Pacemakers that have been introduced in the last 10-15 years are no longer affected by microwaves and have sufficient protection against such devices. They are however affected by magnets and extensive electrical output devices such as power lines. Feel free to play while you warm up your dinner!

Cardiology Nurse-hapnurse