All concepts, explanations, trials, and studies have been re-written in plain English and may contain errors. I am not a doctor ----------------------------------------------------------- NOTE: You can make the print bigger with the font button on your browser! (It's usually a big "A") ----------------------------------------------------------- On pacemakers from Medtronic: May I use a cellular phone? Cell phones are unlikely to interfere with your pacemaker if proper precautions are followed: 1. A distance of at least 6 inches should be kept between a cell phone and your pacemaker. 2. When using a cell phone, you should hold it to the ear opposite the side of the body in which the pacemaker is implanted. 3. When set to receive calls, a cell phone should NOT be carried in a pocket on the same side as the pacemaker. 4. For portable and mobile phones (phones transmitting above 3 watts), maintain a distance of at least 12 inches between the base of the antenna and the pacemaker and follow the above precautions as well. ======================== Can I use power tools safely? Generally, yes. However, remember these guidelines: 1. Keep all equipment in good condition to avoid electrical shock. 2. It is best not to operate power tools alone. 3. Be certain that the tool is properly grounded. If you use power machinery frequently, a ground fault interrupt system is a wise investment. This inexpensive device is a good safety measure because it prevents a sustained electrical shock. 4. Avoid using any power tool locked in the "on" position. 5. Avoid using a chain saw because your hands and body come into close contact with the electric spark generating components, and the chain saw may cause bodily harm if you lose control of the saw. ======================== Can I work on an automobile engine safely? 1. Caution is necessary when near the coil, distributor, or spark plug cables of a running engine. Any adjustments to the distributor should be made when the engine is NOT running. ======================== Should I be concerned about electromagnetic interference in my work place? Office and most shop equipment is unlikely to interfere with your pacemaker if it meets current electrical safety standards. This includes such items as: 1. Computers, electric typewriters. 2. Copying machines, Fax machines. 3. Small wood and metalworking shop tools. If you work in a heavy industrial environment, it is best to ask your doctor's advice about EMI risk. Some probable sources of EMI include: 1. Electic arc welding equipment. 2. Dielectic heaters, used in industry to bend plastic. 3. Electric steel furnaces. 4. Large generators and power plants. 5. Large magnets, such as those used in some stereo speakers. 6. Antennas used to operate CB or ham radios and other radio transmitters. 7. Large TV or radio transmitting towers and power lines carrying over 100,000 volts. Maintain a distance of 25 feet between you and towers or lines. ======================== Are screening devices a concern? 1. Airport screening devices are unlikely to affect your pacemaker, but they may detect the metal housing of your device and set off the security alarm. To obtain security clearance, show your identification card, request scanning with a hand-held screening device or request a hand search. 2. There are a variety of anti-theft systems used in stores and libraries. Walk normally through the theft devices and do not linger in adjacent areas. ======================== Are medical procedures safe? Always tell any medical personnel about your pacemaker. With proper precautionary measures, most medical procedures are unlikely to interfere with your pacemaker. These include: 1. Diagnostic X-rays, including routine chest X-rays and mammograms. Mammograms require a tight enclosure of the breast by X-ray equipment and adjustments that lessen pressure on the pacemaker site are sometimes used to make the patient more comfortable. 2. Dental procedures, including the use of dental drills and ultrasonic probes used to clean teeth. 3. Therapeutic ultrasound and electrolysis, provided this equipment is not used directly over the implant site. Your technician should call Medtronic if there are questions. 4. Radiation therapy, electrosurgery, diatherny, external defibrillation and lithotripsy are procedures that produce high levels of EMI. Consult with your doctor to weigh risks and benefits of such procedures. Source: http://www.medtronic.com/