Abstract

BackgroundThe purpose was to investigate mobile phone interference with implantable deep brain stimulators by means of 10 different 900 Mega Hertz (MHz) and 10 different 1800 MHz GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) mobile phones.MethodsAll tests were performed in vitro using a phantom especially developed for testing with deep brain stimulators. The phantom was filled with liquid phantom materials simulating brain and muscle tissue. All examinations were carried out inside an anechoic chamber on two implants of the same type of deep brain stimulator: ITREL-III from Medtronic Inc., USA.ResultsDespite a maximum transmitted peak power of mobile phones of 1 Watt (W) at 1800 MHz and 2 W at 900 MHz respectively, no influence on the ITREL-III was found. Neither the shape of the pulse form changed nor did single pulses fail. Tests with increased transmitted power using CW signals and broadband dipoles have shown that inhibition of the ITREL-III occurs at frequency dependent power levels which are below the emissions of GSM mobile phones. The ITREL-III is essentially more sensitive at 1800 MHz than at 900 MHz. Particularly the frequency range around 1500 MHz shows a very low interference threshold.ConclusionThese investigations do not indicate a direct risk for ITREL-III patients using the tested GSM phones. Based on the interference levels found with CW signals, which are below the mobile phone emissions, we recommend similar precautions as for patients with cardiac pacemakers: 1. The phone should be used at the ear at the opposite side of the implant and 2. The patient should avoid carrying the phone close to the implant.

Highlights

  • The purpose was to investigate mobile phone interference with implantable deep brain stimulators by means of 10 different 900 Mega Hertz (MHz) and 10 different 1800 MHz GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) mobile phones

  • The examinations have shown that the exposure of the ITREL-III to electromagnetic fields of GSM 900 MHz and 1800 MHz mobile phones does not result in inhibition or changes in the shape of the stimulation pulses

  • The investigations performed with mobile phones did not indicate a direct risk for ITREL-III patients while using the tested mobile phones in positions corresponding to the intended use

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Summary

Introduction

The purpose was to investigate mobile phone interference with implantable deep brain stimulators by means of 10 different 900 Mega Hertz (MHz) and 10 different 1800 MHz GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) mobile phones. BioMedical Engineering OnLine 2003, 2 http://www.biomedical-engineering-online.com/content/2/1/11 pacemaker patient. These malfunctions depend on various parameters: frequency, transmitting power, modulation principle of the mobile phone system, distance between mobile phone and pacemaker, implantation depth, operating mode of the pacemaker as well as the interference immunity of the pacemaker. The same precautions (6 inches or 15 centimeter minimum distance) as in the case of pacemakers should be encouraged. If these precautions are adhered to the possibility of interference with defibrillators can be minimized

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