Stratos LV/LV-T Technical Manual 13

1.5.6 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

The operation of any implanted device may be affected by certain environmental sources generating signals that resemble cardiac activity. This may result in inhibition of pacing and/or triggering or in asynchronous pacing depending on the pacing mode and the interference pattern. In some cases (i.e., diagnostic or therapeutic medical procedures), the interference sources may couple sufficient energy into a pacing system to damage the device and/or cardiac tissue adjacent to the leads.

BIOTRONIK CRT-Ps have been designed to significantly reduce susceptibility to electromagnetic interference (EMI). However, due to the variety and complexity of sources creating interference, there is no absolute protection against EMI. Generally, it is assumed that EMI produces only minor effects, if any, in CRT-P patients. If the patient may be exposed to one of the following environmental conditions, then the patient should be given the appropriate warnings.

1.5.7 Home and Occupational Environments

The following equipment (and similar devices) may affect normal CRT-P operation: electric arc welders, electric melting furnaces, radio/television and radar transmitters, power-generating facilities, high-voltage transmission lines, electrical ignition systems (also of gasoline-powered devices) if protective hoods, shrouds, etc., are removed, electrical tools, anti-theft devices at retail stores and electrical appliances, if not in proper condition or not correctly grounded and encased.

Patients should exercise reasonable caution in avoidance of devices which generate a strong electric or magnetic field. If EMI inhibits pacing or causes a reversion to asynchronous pacing or pacing at magnet rate, moving away from the source or turning it off should allow the CRT-P to return to its normal mode of operation. Some potential EMI sources include:

High Voltage Power Transmission Lines – High voltage power transmission lines may generate enough EMI to interfere with CRT-P operation if approached too closely.