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Ultrasonic scanning equipment. The use of
ultrasonic scanning equipment may cause
mechanical damage to an implanted neurostimulation
system if used directly over the implanted device.
External defibrillators. Safety for use of external
defibrillator discharges on a patient receiving
neurostimulation has not been established. External
defibrillation can cause induced currents in the lead-
extension portion of the neurostimulation system.
After defibrillation, confirm the neurostimulation
system is still working.
Therapeutic radiation. Therapeutic radiation may
damage the electronic circuitry of an implanted
neurostimulation system, although no testing has
been done and no definite information on radiation
effects is available. Sources of therapeutic radiation
include therapeutic X rays, cobalt machines, and
linear accelerators. If radiation therapy is required, the
area over the implanted IPG should be shielded with
lead. Damage to the system may not be immediately
detectable.
Electrocardiograms. Ensure the neurostimulator is off
before initiating an electrocardiogram (ECG). If the
neurostimulator is on during an ECG, the ECG
recording may be adversely affected, resulting in
inaccurate ECG results. Inaccurate ECG results may
lead to inappropriate treatment of the patient.
