Can I have a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)?
In many cases, both the pacemaker and the stimulator can be mutually compatible. Appropriate testing, placement and programming of the devices can help in achieving mutual compatibility. Under certain conditions, it is possible that the pacemaker or ICD could detect the output stimuli from a stimulator. This would cause inappropriate pacemaker or ICD operation during the time the stimuli are detected and possibly cause the delivery of an inadvertent shock. Since there are so many possible combinations of devices and individual patient considerations, your physician and your cardiologist should discuss your particular situation.
In many cases, both the pacemaker and the neurostimulator can be mutually compatible. Appropriate testing, placement and programming of the devices can help in achieving mutual compatibility. Under certain conditions, it is possible that the pacemaker or ICD could detect the output stimuli from a neurostimulator. This would cause inappropriate pacemaker or ICD operation during the time the stimuli are detected and possibly cause the delivery of an inadvertent shock. Since there are so many possible combinations of devices and individual patient considerations, your physician and your cardiologist should discuss your particular situation.
