Abstract
BACKGROUND: Electromagnetic interference (EMI) between tablet computers (tablets) and cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in the abdomen of adults remains unclear. METHODS: We aimed to determine the magnetic flux density (MFD) of tablets, measure the distance at which EMI was triggered, and assess the susceptibility of abdominally implanted CIEDs to EMI. RESULTS: We studied 17 tablets and 2 CIED models. The measured MFD of tablets was 638 Gauss. EMI occurred at a 3.2 cm distance. A simulated patient using a tablet experienced EMI episodes for 357.2 s in 10 min. CONCLUSIONS: Tablets may generate sufficient MFD to induce EMI in abdominally implanted CIEDs.