Some doctors are attempting to alert people that Implantable Cardioverter-Defibillators (ICDs) that the new IPhone 12 and other electronic devices could disrupt the effectiveness of the ICD.
Recently three doctors wrote a letter to the editor to Heart Rhythm Journal. In the article, they state all ICDs have an in-built switch that responds 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. This is a problem. Read the full letter here at heart rhythm journal heartrhythmjournal.com
The American Heart Association has been advising those with pacemakers of ICDs to be aware of devices with strong magnetic fields for a long while. www.heart.org
Apple suggests keeping your iPhone and MagSafe accessories a safe distance away from your device (more than 6 inches/15 cm apart or more than 12 inches/30 cm apart if wirelessly charging) to avoid any potential
interactions with these devices. They also recommend talking to your doctor for specific guidelines.
Ms. Jenn Landers | Patient Advocate Alliance LLC Edited by Dr. Justin Groode
