Use caution when applying magnets to pacemakers or defibrillators for surgery

Peter M. Schulman, Marc A. Rozner

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

45 Scopus citations

Abstract

The application of a magnet to a pacemaker (intended to cause asynchronous pacing) or implanted cardioverter defibrillator (intended to prevent shocks) during surgery without a clear understanding of actual magnet function(s) or precautions can have unexpected, untoward, or harmful consequences. In this report, we present 3 cases in which inadequate assessment of cardiac implanted electronic device (CIED) function, coupled with magnet application, contributed to or resulted in inappropriate antitachycardia pacing or shocks, CIED damage, or patient injury. Although these cases might be rare, they reinforce the need for a timely, detailed preoperative review of CIED function and programming as recommended by the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the Heart Rhythm Society.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)422-427
Number of pages6
JournalAnesthesia and analgesia
Volume117
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2013

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

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