Medtronic pacemakers & ICDs and how they interact w/ magnets and airport/venue security checkpoints

Learn how medical devices like pacemakers and defibrillator units interact with airport security archways, magnets and store security pylons. Learn about the use of Reed switches and Hall sensors in implantable devices. Hear a Medtronic ICD tone as it comes into close contact with a magnet.
My goal is to alleviate some anxiety and fear device patients have due to going through airport and venue security checkpoints. Ultimately it is up to each patient to decide if they are comfortable going through a security station or if they should ask for an individual pat down. Do what is most comfortable for you!
**Warning** I am not a medical professional giving medical advice. I am not employed by Medtronic nor do I speak on their behalf. To learn more about your specific make and model of implanted medical device contact the Patient Services group listed on your patient ID card.

[@LaurieHearrell]

I've had a Medtronic CRT Defibrillator since January 2, 2024. This is the best information! Thank you so much for making this all crystal clear. I'm so grateful to have this device.

[@johnivey2635]

Doug, I commented on these magnets 4 days ago. You replied right away that any strong magnet will do. Well, I found these on Amazon, for your viewers to know about: "Applied Magnets Neodymium Magnet 2-Inch OD x 1-Inch ID x 1/4-Inch Ring". Each has a 50 pound pull, so the write-up states. They are $24 each and I bought 5 of them. One for a table near my bed, not near any electronic device. One near my Lazy-Boy and not near any electronic device. One in the console of each of our 3 vehicles. They come individually boxed and wrapped in bubble wrap. I cut the tape off the wrap for easy access and keep them in their respective boxes. That way they don't interfere with anything. I talked to my cardiologist and he said that the odds of being accidentally shocked are astronomical, he understood why I would want them, having been shocked in the ER with 200 joules. He said it was my "insurance policy". He cautioned me to not tape them to my chest and I already knew that. Hope this can help someone and again, thank you for your videos.

[@TNgrandee3]

I have a Boston Scientific pacemaker and I wish there had been someone like you 16 years ago when I got my first pacemaker. You provide a lot of comforting information.

[@FootballONPASSIVE294]

A man who looks better than most of the people.You maybe not working for medtronic but you sure are very good promotion to them.That was educational for all of us who needed.Thanks

[@WAHB50YY]

I have just had an ICD implanted two weeks ago, and I was looking for the right answers to my questions... I have watched 3 of your videos, so in one hour I have learned so many things I needed to know that I haven't learned in the past 20 days, both before my surgery and after. Your videos are an excellent source of information, and the things you explained are so important for every one with an ICD or a pacemaker devices to know. I, now have some more peace of mind going forward thanks to your videos!! Thank you for such a great service for all of us!

[@popog1638]

I would not take these words as the gospel. I would contact the manufacturer with questions. Some of this info does my not match what I was told. Especially about magnetic chargers on a watch and magnets on my headgear on my breathing machine. Why take a chance. His facts may be true, but I find it hard for a layman to give this kind of advice. "Call your manufacturer with questions"

[@WAHB50YY]

@@popog1638 it has been almost 14 months ago... no, of course, I did not take what he said as the Gospel. I am already an expert on what to do or not do! I have had no issues at all. I am very cautious, even if my own Electrophysiologist told me that it's okay to use my muscle electrostimulation device to train my calves and my legs when I asked him, I still didn't feel like running the risk of getting an unnecessary shock from my ICD, so I never attempted to do it. In my following visit to the doctor, he asked me if I had tried to use the device, I told him that I did not feel comfortable doing it. But thank you for your input! The more voices and opinions the better!

[@pijnto]

This is the most comprehensive information on the subject, on the internet

[@jeanhofvedvm7589]

Wow, thanks for this! I had a Medtronic ICD/pacemaker implanted yesterday (replacing a Boston Scientific ICD). Your videos, especially this one, provide the clearest and most comprehensive info I could find! Now I can relax! Thanks so much!

[@popog1638]

Call your manufacturer with questions.

[@vknidhi]

A confident and well informed patient with ICD on. Thanks for clearing many doubts and backing your information with technical details. May you enjoy a healthy life!

[@mach2262]

Thank you for clarifying so many scary and confusing questions for us new patients 🤩🥰🙏🏻

[@mmogdog]

Awesome info, Thanks for taking the time to share!

[@cynthiawaldman9493]

Fantastic information Doug! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and the history with us. So great!

[@judypang1387]

This was great Doug. Very interesting and helpful . Also very knowledgeable

[@Shannon-rx9wy]

Thank you so much! I learned more from you in a short time than I ever have from doctors or calling the Medtronic number. Unfortunately I woke up to the “French ambulance” tone. 😂😂❤❤❤

[@RodNeep]

The French ambulance tone doesn't happen at the time an incident is detected. It happens once a day at a pre-determined time. You can ask your cardio tech guy to set the time to, say, 9.40am. Then it will go off at that same time every day until you visit the cardio department. In the meantime your bed side monitor or phone app will have reported to them what the cause was. (In my case it was a low battery - 6 months warning time, In another case the alarm sounded because the pacemaker didn't see the monitor for several days.) So there is no need for it to wake you up 🙂... just ask them to set the time when it will go off. As an aside, if you go outside your normal time zone, then the alarm will still sound at the usual pr determined home time, as the device doesn't have a clock to follow your travels around the world.

[@verlindalay2493]

Love your new appearance 😊Thanks for the valuable information.😊

[@tay_chan13]

Thank you so much for this information! I got my pacemaker seven weeks ago and have been worried about going by magnets! Thank you!

[@johnfagan3220]

Thank you very much for that information, especially about the reed switches having been changed to Hall devices.

[@johnsampey344]

Thank you. That's put my mind at rest about future travel plans.

[@himawanprajogo7472]

Thank you, just had a medtronic device implanted yesterday, this answers a lot of questions :)

[@bimiup1]

Thank you for this post. You have given me so much more info than the Medtronic tech and my doc! Really helpful.

[@jimepley1210]

Thanks, Doug, for the in-depth explanation. I have a background in avionics (USAF radar tracking and targeting systems 1966 - 1991) and your explanation makes perfect sense to me. I received my device last week (a Medtronic ICD) and had many of the questions you just answered. Thanks again.

[@tommym9816]

Thans for the video im glad to hear that no damage can occur insiders a magnetic field. I’ve had my icd for 3 weeks now. Greetings Mark from te Netherlands

[@paultowns4273]

Just getting into having one installed and find this very informative. Thanks

[@beverlystrather7962]

Hi Doug, just watched your video, very helpful information. I have to travel next week and I was a bit worried about going through the security checkpoints with my ICD implant. Now I know what to be aware of. It also helps that you also have an ICD implant so you're talking from experience, that makes all the difference in the world. Thank you very much for making this video!

[@rickm2985]

Thanks for this video. It is the best information I have received. I feel a lot less anxious after watching this. I have only had my Medtonics ICD for a month. Very helpful and informative.

[@dennett73mk]

Thanks for the information. I have a Medtronic pacemaker , Serena, implanted 2 years ago. So far all is good. Your information is helpful!

[@felixchambers2632]

You are very knowledgeable, helpful, informative; Thank you for sharing. Got my pacemaker-difil last week. Greetings from Anchorage, ALASKA! :-)

[@ALPHAJACK78]

I have learned more from this video than I have in the 6 years with my device! Awesome, thank you! Walmart hated when I ran out the door, LOL

[@jasonmiles2422]

Thank you for the video. This was really useful and makes me even less worried :)

[@barryhuizing2804]

Thank you very much...answered a lot of questions!

[@carlosnvegas2426]

Thank you very much Doug. I work in the cath lab and moonlight in the EP. Learned lots from your in depth tutorial! Keep up the excellent work! Carlos

[@davidroy3420]

thank you douglas for sharing this information.

[@kimneal5910]

Thank you for all the information, this is 3 days old for me.

[@gbarry4286]

Thanks, I just had a pacemaker implanted about two weeks ago and while I knew the answer to to the questions already from reading my manual and talking to the Doctors, your explanations about the why was absolutely great and very much appreciated.

[@pbergonzi]

Thank you. I'm glad I found your helpful channel.

[@NancyHafler]

Thank You! This was very helpful and reassuring!

[@SuperMagic103]

Excellent post.. Bravo.. 😍 Thanks for the informations. Great

[@sweetcreations5208]

Glad i found your video. I just got a pace maker on Nov 1, 2021 and had a lot of questions

[@samernajjar7827]

Thank you for making this video, it was super informative. I understand my ICD much more now and feel safer for having this knowledge.

[@czaherrobert]

Hi, Thank you, great Info. Greatings from Austria.

[@marigoldhs9763]

Thank you for all your information.

[@26mandys]

Thanks for this very thorough information.

[@historicalmachines]

Awesome video -- really informative -- thanks a lot!

[@hvarne3685]

Seriously thank you so much for all of your content on KZbin and also your continued support and involvement in the ICD Reddit community!

[@lindaspinelli3855]

thank you very very much for this video!

[@mothertucker8294]

Thank you Doug, it was helpful. I just got a Medtronic duel/ICD. I'm feelings very uncomfortable about it all.. I'm just trying to get as much information as I can. You have ease my mind. Thanks for the great information.

[@bftime1]

Great info. Doug. I just had a St. Jude ICD/Pacemaker implanted and you answered a lot of questions. I understand that what you said also pertains to headphones/earbuds. I work out with earbuds and was worried since there is a good chance of them accidently falling on the device.

[@Fairplay2015]

Thanks you , I just received my Medtronic pacemaker today!

[@DouglasRachac]

Welcome to the bionic club, and the Medtronic family.

[@Dalehastie07]

Thank you. VERY, VERY helpful 😁

[@dafyddr8678]

Thank you for your insight. This came in good use for a friend of mine. Best Regards, Dafydd UK

[@stuntmanmike29]

Medtronic sent me a card to show to airport security informing them of my ICD. I also have my ICD information card. I keep these cards with my passport at all times. Thanks for the helpful video.

[@karolinesmail489]

Same here i show my card n scar

[@doreenmoisey9324]

You are a wealth of good info. Thankyou

[@namnguyen1969]

thank you very much. that is lots of good infor.

[@margaretlester2293]

Thank you so much for the information. I found this not only informative but also comforting. I am new to having an ICD/pacemaker from Medtronic as of Feb 4,2022. I have been very scared about living my life normally and this video has helped so much.

[@DouglasRachac]

So glad to hear that Margaret! Thank you, you made my day!!

[@David-os9ej]

Thanks. I just had a ppm. This is useful information.

[@tinamariemcwilliams4692]

Thank you that was informative. 🙃

[@onedogbowen]

What a wonderful video. I thank you so much... I will be careful

[@FloridaClay]

Thanks! Useful info.

[@jefferywilson456]

Thank you.... I’ve only had mine for 3 weeks

[@daveolliemetalhead]

Thank you so much for your info

[@hotrodandrube9119]

Thanks for the video.

[@lindathompson4770]

So glad to have run across you, Doug! I'm looking at getting BiV and have been a little leery. My Grandma had one and it went haywire on her when she was driving, her car jumped a concrete median, motor running, still in gear and she was slumped over when the paramedics broke the window to get to her. She was without oxygen long enough and damage that she wasn't going to be able to live by herself anymore. I'm guessing she had one with the reed switch.

[@johnkoksha8263]

Thanks Doug, I will check it out. John

[@julieam2007]

Hi I was looking for information on pacemaker function when it comes to people that have a welding career. Thank you for creating these informative videos!

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Julie, both Medtronic and Boston Scientific have information on their websites that explain how one can weld safely with an implanted device. You can find Medtronic’s information here: www.medtronic.com/us-en/patients/electromagnetic-guide/frequently-asked-questions.html

[@WUSAF71]

Hey, Doug. GREAT video!! I'm on my 4th ICD since January 1995 and have always ALWAYS told airport security I can't go through the archway or the wand; --Hand search only. (FUN FUN). My current ICD was done in 2015 so I seem to be the owner of a modern, Hall device. I have been aware in the past 5 years that the booth type scanners are safe. On a trip thru London Gatwick Airport, the security lady PROMISED me it was OK because she said her mom had an ICD and always went thru the booth type scanner. SO~as my Boston Scientific unit is so recent, I will be able to walk thru the archways with no worries. Great news. Thanks from London, UK.

[@cachemoneydotexe]

WUSAF71 I inform the TSA agents that I have a device and they make me go through the Body Scanner

[@WUSAF71]

HI. I always tell the TSA/or whoever that I have an ICD. Some say that's fine go thru the circular booth and you're done; others allow me thru the booth but do a hand search anyway. There's no ONE SIZE FITS ALL response. I do know that the rotating booth is safe; also, as I know my device is only 4 years old--it's already insulated against localised low grade magnetic fields. It's a real pain sometimes but you gotta bow to local requirements. I think the ICD manufacturers and the security bosses should have sorted this out years ago.

[@richardr1627]

Thank you … very helpful

[@davidcamp9394]

My pacemaker is a St Jude model. There was an occasion that I needed an MRI. This MRI was coordinated with a representative from St Jude to put my pacemaker device in a delay mode for the duration of the procedure. After it was completed, my pacemaker was put back into normal operation.

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi David, thanks for watching! That sounds like the current process, but I heard at least one company has a device that will automatically revert back to its normal programming after the MRI (so the rep doesn’t need to stick around). I have also heard “they” are trying to develop technology that will detect an MRI environment and automatically switch the device into the MRI safe mode without the need for a device tech to even be present. We’re going to see some cool technology in the next 5-10 years.

[@DeviantMotives]

Thank you for this vid

[@kaerscarface]

Thank you

[@GammerThumbs]

Thank you!

[@klarname]

Very informativ , thank you big time

[@teresagobis9509]

Thank you so much 😘

[@mikemitchell5229]

Doug - EXCELLENT video/info. I am on my second ICD (my current is an Evera MRI DDMB1D1. Interesting is that I've historically gotten better info from a Medtronic tech than I have from my cardiologist or from my electro-guru. Unfortunately, there is a lot of incorrect information out there, both on-line and there is some degree of lack of knowledge within some cardio-physicians. I think that training of the patient might go a long way to address some of the issues. For example, when my battery from my first ICD got low, of course, the device alarmed. I didn't know what it was (exactly); hadn't heard it ever before but I suspected it was the low battery alert...nonetheless, I was a little anxious. With training and some upfront knowledge, I think patients would be much better off from the mental/anxiety perspectives. Thanks for the video! Mike

[@All-THAIed-Up]

Brilliant knowledge for me about to go through a lot of airport screening next week with my recently fitted Medtronic pacemaker. My mind is at ease. Thank you.

[@tamermakram8121]

Can u share plz if u went through any security gates? Is that affect the device??

[@All-THAIed-Up]

@Tamer Makram I've been through many gates since I posted. No problems, it pays to let the security staff know you have a pacemaker, only occasionally will they get you to bypass the gate, where they can either scan you with a detector wand or once they gave me a hand pat down. Hope this helps you 😀.

[@tamermakram8121]

@@All-THAIed-Up thank u so so much really appreciate ur reply, am really confused coz some people say its safe and no interference meanwhile some people say no don't go through the gate it will trigger different mood😞😐😞

[@All-THAIed-Up]

@@tamermakram8121 most of the professional advice is: just proceed through the scanner and don't stop

[@All-THAIed-Up]

My current problem is I'm trying to get a MRI scan...that's tricky because there's only one place up here that will do it only 1 day each month when a special person will attend and somehow switch my pacemaker off while I get scanned (and monitor me) then switch it back on after scan

[@msenecal]

Thank you Doug. You have been very helpful. I have been trying to track down this sound for a month. Originally I thought it was from the Medtronic base transmitter but that wasn't it. Just yesterday I found it was from my pacemaker. You helped me identify that it was the magnet alarm. Next step: What is triggering the magnet alarm.

[@DouglasRachac]

Mark, you'll find that magnet are darn near everywhere. They're in wrist watch straps, Kindle/iPad covers, kids toys, some blankets, cases for glasses, embedded in doors and windows....once in a while you'll hold something or lean up against something, hear that tone, and think "oh....there's a magnet there" and simply move away. I hope you figure this one out.

[@vijaykhedkar4465]

Nice sir thanks

[@chadkarmann8067]

I just got a Medronics pacemaker /defribulator implanted this last Thursday. February 10, 2022. I have been researching since the doctor told me that I was going to need it. I ran across you on Friday after the surgery. You totally helped me understand everything about it! You put all of the pieces together! I am a mechanic by trade and I was concerned that I wasn't going to be able to do what I do. I know I can now. Thank you! God Bless!

[@lindathompson4770]

Hope you're doing well! I'm probably getting a BiV before long. I was told that about the only things I'd have to worry about was being around was a welding torch and a chainsaw.

[@jimjordan5630]

@@lindathompson4770 Why a chainsaw? I just had my ICD implanted 12 days ago, 09-19-22, and they told me more to have under the hood of a running vehicle, and read my paperwork with my device about welders, no showers (don't let the wound get wet), and no driving for for 2 weeks. I figured the driving thing was fit the wound to heal. No one mentioned the problems associated with driving should the device actuate.

[@chriskamer5190]

Great information. Your videos have provided me more information than Medtronics and my Doctor combined. Do you recommend any groups on people with ICD to share information and experiences?

[@DouglasRachac]

Thanks for watching Chris. Yes, there are several wonderful groups on social media that I recommend. One is on Facebook called Living with an ICD. Another is on Reddit under sub-Reddit r/pacemakerICD. Both have lots of people with implanted devices, family members, and health care professionals all of whom are happy to answer questions and share their experiences.

[@susanweekley6152]

Nice wedding rings 😊

[@kayaba8702]

Hi Doug, what about having an MRI scan. Thanks for taking the time to explain about Pacemakers.

[@DouglasRachac]

Yes, MRI scans are possible with most off today’s devices and leads. Make sure to tell your doctor and MRI team about your implanted system and they will do the necessary checking to make sure everything is done in a safe way.

[@Tedybear315]

I was just switched from a normal ICD with basic pacer function over to an ICD with full bi-pace feature (hard to describe) I'm having a he** of a time getting the arterial heart lead to stay in the right position. The initial install went well, had to move to my right chest area due to scar tissue on the left side. Within maybe a few hours of my getting home I started getting a wicked bad 'twitch' in my right side. Found out that one lead kicked loose and it was sending pacing signals into my diaphragm. So the doctor did a re-attachment and found two leads out of the 3 kicked loose. Went back in a few days ago and had those leads re-done..... And I went to take a nap that afternoon after the surgery. Same thing happened. Scheduled an emergency office call the next day and the medtronic rep took the readings and was relaying all the findings to the doctor- The arterial lead registered 'suspect' (on my home monitor) and sure enough- The lead was 'sensing' but not 'capturing'. The rep worked it out with the doctor and reduced the pace function to almost zero so I got ride of the twitch. Had the chest X-ray done on Friday and the doctor will compare it with the one as I was leaving the hospital after the procedure. I'll know the game plan on Tuesday when they reach out. The only thing of interest is when the doctor mentioned they only use 1 of 2 connectors. The small screw type- And the hook type. So my heart tissue in that region has now rejected 2 heart lead placements.... Should be fun when we figure out how to resolve this. (I used to work with magnets/speakers... I know that tell tail sound very well)

[@DouglasRachac]

I’m sorry to hear you’re going through all this. It’s unusual for leads to dislodge that often. I hope your doc is able to find a good placement that works for you. Best of luck.

[@sillytubeify]

Super interesting. Mine is infected. It’s the one for bladder. I’m praying it gets better. It’s been in almost 3 weeks. I am on immunosuppressants, so... infection.

[@DouglasRachac]

sillytubeify You have an Interstim device? I worked on the Interstim team for about a year in 2005-2006. A really neat product. I hope your infection clears up quickly and that the device is working well for you.

[@SuperMagic103]

Just beautiful videos... I need to ask if is possible an IRM.. Investigation? I will really appreciate your answer. Thanks

[@michaelserdarerdas1601]

Hi Douglas love your show very informative mate i also have a AICD fitted about a month ago Q .I have a Massage chair , is it a problem me using it

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Michael, thanks for watching! The general rule with our devices is that equipment that contains small motors are safe as long as you can keep your device at least 12 inches (30cm) away from the motor. The motor for massage chairs are usually in the base beneath you, so those are okay to use. There is a bit of personal comfort with it as well. I use a massage chair from time to time, but the strong pounding massage on my back makes me uncomfortable, so I don’t use that particular setting. But, I love that deep pressure massage that feels like someone driving an elbow into my back. As always, if at any time you feel “off”, step away from the chair for a few minutes and you should feel better. I hope that helps.

[@keifer4146]

When I go to target I watch the thing above me they turn red not sure why and yes I have a Defibrillator ICD / pacemaker in one. I hear the click and watch the red light about the door like some one stole something but the alarm doesn’t go off. Also when you talked about sleeping on the side of the Defibrillator and all I do it my self but ya it may bother a little and can feel the device when i and laying on the left side but doesn’t make it go off or anything

[@Hshsuiiien]

Thanks and you look like a young George Jones

[@waynekeilen5792]

Douglas great information. I have a pacemaker implanted back on July 31st of this year and recently had a little episode because I work at a company that gas a very high powered magnetic machine that we use to change out industrial batteries that power electronically powered pallet jacks and other equipment and I got close to it and it caused my pacemaker to get all out of wack an gave me electric pulses an causing my heart rate to sky rocket causing me to have a panic attack an throwing everything out of wack I ended up in the ER because of it.

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Wayne, thanks for watching. And sorry you experienced that. If you get too close to a magnetic field with a pacemaker it will force the device to switch modes and pace at a constant rate. Medtronic devices pace at 85bpm while Boston Scientific and St.Jude/Abbott devices pace around 110bpm. No worries, though. Just most back from the magnetic field 6-12 inches and your device will switch back to the original programming mode you’re used to. It might take a few minutes for your heart to settle down, but your device won’t be harmed. Hopefully you’ll come to recognize the signs and laugh it off in the future. I have lost count of how many times I have accidentally triggered the magnet response in my ICD. Magnets seem to be everywhere. Good luck to you!

[@donnahowell818]

Doug I loved the video. I have a Boston Scientific ICD. My question is about the archway. How far out does the magnetic field go? I think it spreads out and weakens, but standing and having a conversation at the hospital within that field, how far away should one be? I wasn't pleased with being detained by police monitoring the area.

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Donna, Thanks for watching, and thanks for the great question! Fortunately magnetic fields dissipate very quickly. So much, in fact, that you can be 6 inches from even the strongest magnets available and it won't effect your device. That's why there's very little concern that an archway will interact with your device. Still, just to be safe, the medical device companies advise that you walk through the archway normally. The only way it could even possibly be an issue is if they stopped you directly under the archway and held you there for several seconds. One step on either side of that archway and the field has dissipated to a point where its no longer a concern. Thanks again for the great question!

[@adhievallianto9262]

Thank you Doug for your information and demonstration, how magnet not cause a danger even in top of device. I just want to ask one thing. You said that you have been walk trough on security airport checking. That means you going to travel using an airplane right? Is that safe traveling with an airplane to patient like us who have device implant in our body? Does air pressure can cause negative impact for device or the patient it self? Does magnetic, turbine, propeller, can cause damage or something? How does it feels as a patient, when flying on an airplane? Thanks before. I really glad to meet you in your channel. Thanks again. God bless us.

[@DouglasRachac]

Hello Adhie, Thanks for watching and thanks for your questions. You are correct, I am speaking about airport security and flying in airplanes. There is no concern due to the change in air pressure. Our bodies do a great job of protecting our devices, so we don't need to worry about pressure in an airplane. If you happen to go scuba diving you will want to talk to your device manufacturer. Most devices are rated for use at 50 feet underwater, but some Medtronic devices are rated to 100 feet. But there is no concern due to flying in an airplane. I don't feel any different that I did before my implant. The pressure doesn't affect the device, neither does sitting in the seats closest to the engines. Those are too far away to have any impact. Thanks again for the questions, and I hope you have safe and enjoyable travels.

[@WillHGadgetsandMore]

Hello, thanks for this video first, question is it safe to wear an Apple Watch I have an ICD? Thank you

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Will, thanks for watching! You’re in luck, I happen to have a video on device patients and wearing an iWatch. You can find that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4XVfYxtm9GdZ6s I hope that helps!

[@WillHGadgetsandMore]

@@DouglasRachac Thanks, I'll check it out

[@timborg7174]

Wow, Very informative! Thank you for this video. I'm curious if the pacemaker can somehow break if I put a super strong neodymium magnet on it? If there could be any small metal part inside the device that might break.

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Tim, I haven't heard of any damage being caused by magnets, even strong ones. The only warning I have heard of is one to stay out of hydroelectric dams, but I believe that had more to do with interference that causing damage. Still, the official recommendation from device companies is to avoid holding a magnet within 6 inches of your device.

[@RodNeep]

@@DouglasRachac Good... but can you be a little more specific for me please.... for example headphones. The left headphone is probably a little less than six inches from the device. Is that OK or not? Thanks 🙂

[@DouglasRachac]

@@RodNeep headphones are safe to use. The only recommendation is that you not hang the headphones around your neck. Even rare earth magnets are safe at 5-6 inches. Headphone magnets aren’t a problem when worn normally.

[@michaelmallal9101]

I think I have one. Have an appointment in a few days. Wanna get my license back.

[@56Fern]

Thank you so much for this information! It is so helpful. My ICD is MRI safe, but they said my LBB lead is not, so I can't get an MRI. Why is that?

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Fern, thanks for watching, without knowing all of the details it’s hard to say. Most leads today are MR conditional (MRI “safe”). But only for placement in some specific locations in the heart. Placement in the Left Bundle Branch (LBB) was not one of those locations. If the MR conditional lead is placed in a location in the heart it was not tested to be in, then it can’t be considered MRI “safe” because of the lack of testing. But, if you have a Medtronic 3830 lead placed in the LBB you’re in luck. Just last week the FDA approved that lead for use in the Left Bundle Branch, which means it is now MRI “safe”, and your MRI clinic should now be able to perform an MRI on that lead with that particular placement. finance.yahoo.com/news/medtronic-first-receive-fda-approval-130000695.html

[@stephenbianco2146]

I was in the electric utility industry as a Lineman for most of my life. Worked on many different power line voltages, highest being 115kv. When working live lines with hot sticks, or rubber gloving live lines, typically you were very near or "in" the electric field while working. Now I am 70 yrs. old and had a Medtronic pacemaker installed last week due to low bpm at rest and atrial flutter. My heart is healthy and fine, but the sinus node is not doing it's job correctly and electric signals are off. I now wonder if all those years around electric/magnetic fields played a factor in my sinus node shorting out so to speak. Are you aware of any research in this area regarding Power Linemen? Also, I realize that there is no material that can stop the lines of magnetic flux from traveling from a magnet's north pole to it's south pole. But, it can be redirected with a ferromagnetic metal I believe. I am sure that the developers of these medical devices have looked at all possibilities for shielding, which makes your video and explanations about current devices and how they are affected & react to magnetic fields so interesting!

[@johnivey2635]

Doug, thank you for your videos. I had a Boston Scientific defibrillator/pacemaker implanted on 10-13-23. The pacemaker part is turned off. I was shocked in the ER at 200 joules while awake. I was out when they hit me with 300 joules which stopped my V-Tach. Where can I buy these magnets as I don't find them on Amazon or will any magnet work? Thank you.

[@DouglasRachac]

Any strong magnet will work. You can find them at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Fleet Farm or any hardware store. Just know how to use them appropriately so you don’t put yourself at risk.

[@johnivey2635]

Thank you.

[@disturbed_deliberations]

You hope it switched back when you took away the magnet, but unless you have a monitor you won't know for sure! I have my tenth implanted device and I also have one of those medtronic magnets from way back. I am not deliberately messing with my device unless instructed by my cardiologist. Thanks anyway. I've had one shock when awake and don't really ever want another one. Happy to watch your reaction if you want to trigger yours.

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Eddy, thanks for watching, and thanks for your concern. The good news is that a magnet won’t trigger a shock. It’s just not something that is possible. As for my device switching back after using the magnet, I have the utmost confidence in my device because I know the Engineers who designed it, and we’ve talked about the Hall effect sensor and how it works. Even still, I do -not- recommend people swipe a magnet over their device just for fun. As my wife says “It’s not a stupid party trick!!” So, you’re right to keep magnets away from your device.

[@petererickson861]

Having one of the icd’s implanted. I do auto body repair for a living. The representative with Megtronics came and talked with me about mig welding. His summary is that mig welding with a unit less than 160 amps with the unit 5 ft from me would be acceptable. I also use a spot welder. A squeeze type hybrid unit it is made by Prospot. He wasn’t able to offer me any information on using it. Doesn’t anyone operate one of these on a regular basis, if so do they use a magnetic to keep the icd from reading while the use it. I know that the welds are intermittent, and usually with the install of an automotive sheet metal panel not prolonged. Maybe 20-30 spot welds over an hour of time. I’m looking to know what is safe for me after I return to work from having the icd implanted.

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Peter, thanks for watching! To answer your question, I’ll first recommend this video where I talk about welding specifically and talk about how time and distance are both important when talking about electromagnetic interference: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5DHnWt3g8-Xrpo I don’t weld myself, so I can’t offer any direct advice myself. I would recommend, however, calling Medtronic Patient Services and asking to speak with a Technical Services Rep. They will have some more detailed info about welding with an implanted device. I hope that helps.

[@1957Jeannine]

Thank you for this info. Just had my 3rd device (100% dependent pacer/definitely combo) and you've given me the technical info I've been missing. I realize this is 2022 but your info is still current. The techs I've chatted with give me a glazed look when I asked for specific info. Any thoughts on effect of TENS unit for chronic pain?

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Idy, Thanks for watching! The med device companies give pretty vague info on the use of TENS units. They usually refer patients to their doctor to get that answer. From what I've heard other patients say, the general consensus is either to not use TENS units at all, or to only use them on the arms and legs, not on the torso. Your best course of action is to talk to your device doctor and get their recommendation.

[@amiregent985]

Hi all, thought I’d chime in on this topic as I recently was looking into a PEFM device and sought clarification from my cardiac team. They referred the matter to Medtronics who threw back their blanket statement, do not use, despite the fact that the PEFM device manufacturer provided this detail: a BEMER (name of this unit) signal is emitted at a max avg flux density (intensity) of 150 microTesla or 1.5 Gauss at the applicator surface and decreases exponentially from its source. It is important that the physician is aware of the output power of the BEMER as to ensure its use will not negatively impact the active implant or its functional operation. Sad state of affairs unfortunately!

[@brit50ify]

@@amiregent985 Makes you wonder just how much they have tested their devices.

[@brit50ify]

@@DouglasRachac I get the impression these companies have done very few studies on anything. I want to use a vibrating platform and no one has anyu idea. And docs know even less. Which makes sense since they only know what the device companies tell them. Very sad.

[@themick6586]

How about high and welding 200 -600 amps

[@jpc08109]

I have a pacemaker and I have to walk through metal detector 2x a day for my job

[@erikad1288]

Question. In hospice care, if a pt has a automatic defibrillator and pacer and is nearing the end of life.. I know a magnet is typically put over for the defibrillator to avoid shocking pt but if it’s one of the newer “pacer and icd” combos is it harmful to place magnet?

[@DouglasRachac]

Hi Erika, with a pacer/ICD combo a magnet will not affect pacing, but it will “inhibit detections” which means the device will not be able to shock while the magnet is on top of the device. I hope that helps.