The Heart Rhythm Society recently published information regarding an important public health issue concerning the newer generation iPhone 12 which can potentially inhibit lifesaving therapy in a patient, particularly while carrying the phone in upper pockets.
The article advises; “Contemporary studies have shown minimal risk of electromagnetic interference with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD’s) and prior smartphones without magnetic arrays.
“Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD) have an in-built switch which respond to an externally applied magnetic field. When an external magnet is applied to a defibrillator, high voltage shock therapy for ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation is suspended. It has been estimated that a magnetic field stronger than 10 Gauss is strong enough to activate these switches.
“A recent case report highlighted magnetic interference with a fitness tracker wrist band deactivating an ICD up to distances of 2.4 cm.
“Apple Inc. website does mention magnetic interference with medical devices and prior consulting with physician and medical device manufacturers.”
It goes on to to advise:
