Do Slot Machines Affect Pacemakers

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Mark S Link, MD

Mark S Link, MD

Please advise as I love to play the slot machines. First, please consult your cardiologist to find out what devices you should avoid being near now that you have a pacemaker. That said, slot machines are fairly well shielded-more to keep interference from getting in than to prevent interference from leaking out-so I don't think the machines will do you any harm. Electrical devices and pacemakers:.electric blankets, heating pads, and microwave ovens can be used and won't affect your pacemaker.cell phones should'nt be put directly on your chest or on the s.

  • Section Editor — Cardiac Arrhythmias
  • Professor of Medicine
  • UT Southwestern Medical Center
Section Editor
N A Mark Estes, III, MD

N A Mark Estes, III, MD

  • Editor-in-Chief — Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Section Editor — Cardiac Arrhythmias
  • Professor of Medicine
  • University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Deputy Editor
Do Slot Machines Affect PacemakersTodd F Dardas, MD, MS

Todd F Dardas, MD, MS

Machines
  • Deputy Editor — Cardiology
  • Clinical Associate Professor
  • University of Washington

INTRODUCTION

While there has always been concern about the potential for electromagnetic interference with pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) function, due to interaction between the device and an electromagnetic field, the risk is quite low (table 1) [1,2]. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can occur in a variety of settings, but overall is more likely in the hospital environment than in the non-hospital environment [3].

There are reports of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) being impacted by sources of EMI in the non-hospital environment (eg, slot machines, laptop computers, etc). There are also disclaimers that wireless sources could be the source of EMI with CIEDs, even though no published data exists (eg, automobile manufacturers providing 'caution' for device patients purchasing automobiles with 'keyless' entry mechanisms, hybrid engines, etc). Nonetheless, there are few sources of EMI in the non-hospital environment which are truly concerning [4,5]. However, with the proliferation of wireless technology, any new device which operates on a new frequency or new technology platform should be assessed in order to determine whether there is indeed any significant potential for EMI with any CIED.

Electromagnetic interference with medical sources is discussed separately. (See 'Pacing system malfunction: Evaluation and management', section on 'Electromagnetic interference' and 'Cardiac implantable electronic devices: Long-term complications', section on 'Electromagnetic interference'.)

HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES

Do Slot Machines Affect Pacemakers

Although there are no studies that have systematically evaluated the effect of household microwave ovens on implanted devices, it is widely accepted that contemporary pacemakers and ICDs are adequately shielded from microwave energy produced by modern appliances [3]. Pacemaker manufacturers do not recommend any special precautions when using common household appliances, such as televisions, radios, toasters, microwave ovens, and electric blankets; UpToDate experts agree with this approach. As a new appliance that uses a new or different energy source reaches the market, the appliance needs to be tested to determine whether there is any potential for device interference.

There are circumstances in which a device may be affected by specific sources of energy under narrow circumstances. This was illustrated in a study assessing the potential for induction cook tops to interfere with pacemaker function. Patients with a unipolar, left-sided implant could experience interference if the pot was not concentrically placed on the induction coil and if the patient stood as close as possible to the cook top. The most common response to interference was a reset to an asynchronous interference mode [6]. Most contemporary devices utilize bipolar pacing and sensing configuration, which minimizes the chance of device malfunction from electromagnetic interference.

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Literature review current through: Dec 2020. This topic last updated: May 13, 2019.
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Some say yes

Pacemaker Machine For The Home

by qwerty - 2010-04-19 10:04:22

Do Slot Machines Affect Pacemakers Work In The Heart Youtube

That was the first thing my hubby told me when we were told I needed a pacemaker. The slot machines would interfere and I should not play them! But he is slightly prejudice!! lol... :)
They can take away my choloclate, my diet coke and even ice cream, but I will probably die with a slot handle in my hand! OK. I only get to go once every other month or so, but it is a get away where I don't need chocolate, or food, just time and a little money. They bring me water (I don't drink), and I don't have to think about work, or anything I don't want to, so I am happy.
Seriously, I have searched this board and there is some discussion. You should check with your Dr and your Pacemaker rep to be sure, but I have not had problems. I only have a PM and just got it January this year. I have only been to the casino twice since I got the PM, but I had no problems. Granted, my heart goes a little faster sometimes when I am there, but I would hope that was just excitment of the lights and playing.
I usually don't lean up against the machines, but I do play them. (The penny slots with bonus screens are my favorite).
Welcome to the club and I know there will be a few more respond.
Hope you have a good week.

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