5
Hospital and Medical Environments
High-output ultrasonics and lithotripsy.
The use of high-output devices, such as an
electrohydraulic lithotriptor, may cause damage to the electronic circuitry of an implanted IPG. If
lithotripsy must be used, do not focus the energy near the IPG.
Ultrasonic scanning equipment.
The use of ultrasonic scanning equipment may cause
mechanical damage to an implanted neurostimulation system if used directly over the implanted
system.
External defibrillators.
The safety of discharge of an external defibrillator on patients with
implanted neurostimulation systems has not been established.
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.
Home and Occupational Environments
Security, antitheft, and radiofrequency identification (RFID) devices.
Some antitheft devices,
such as those used at entrances or exits of department stores, libraries, and other public places,
and airport security screening devices may affect stimulation. Additionally, RFID devices, which
are often used to read identification badges, as well as some tag deactivation devices, such as
those used at payment counters at stores and loan desks at libraries, may also affect stimulation.
Patients who are implanted with nonadjacent multiple leads and patients who are sensitive to low
stimulation thresholds may experience a momentary increase in their perceived stimulation, which
some patients have described as uncomfortable or jolting. Patients should cautiously approach
such devices and should request help to bypass them. If they must go through a gate or doorway
containing this type of device, patients should turn off their IPG and proceed with caution, being
sure to move through the device quickly.
Wireless use restrictions.
In some environments, the use of wireless functions (e.g., Bluetooth
®
wireless technology) may be restricted. Such restrictions may apply aboard airplanes, near
explosives, or in hazardous locations. If you are unsure of the policy that applies to the use of this
device, please ask for authorization to use it before turning it on. (Bluetooth
®
and the Bluetooth
logo are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.)
Mobile phones.
While interference with mobile phones is not anticipated, technology continues to
change and interaction between a neurostimulation system and a mobile phone is possible.
Advise patients to contact their physician if they are concerned about their mobile phone
interacting with their neurostimulation system.