5.12 Store Anti-Theft Systems/Airport Security Screening Systems
Certain types of anti-theft systems, such as those installed at entrances/exits of stores,
libraries and other facilities, as well as airport security systems can interfere with the
OPTIMIZER Smart IPG. Such interference would most often inhibit CCM signal
delivery. Patients should be advised to walk through such systems at a normal pace, i.e.
not to slow down while passing through. Prior to passing through airport security
systems, patients should notify the attendant security personnel that they carry an implant
and should present their implant ID card.
5.13 Industrial Machinery
High voltage power lines, electric and arc welders, electric smelters, and power-
generating equipment can interfere with the operation of the OPTIMIZER Smart IPG.
For that reason, one needs to take into account the field strengths and modulation
characteristics of all electromagnetic fields patients are exposed to in their workplaces or
due to their lifestyle. Patients need to be specifically warned about these risks, or the
OPTIMIZER Smart IPG should be programmed to minimize its susceptibility.
5.14 Transmitting Devices
Communication equipment such as radio and TV transmitters (including amateur [“ham
radio”] transmitters, microwave, and CB radio transmitters with power amplifiers) as
well as radar transmitters can interfere with the operation of the OPTIMIZER Smart IPG.
For that reason, one needs to take into account the field strengths and modulation
characteristics of all electromagnetic fields patients are exposed to in their workplaces or
due to their lifestyle. Patients need to be specifically warned about these risks, or the
OPTIMIZER Smart IPG should be programmed to minimize its susceptibility.
5.15 Cellular and Mobile Phones
Cell phones and other mobile phones can affect the operation of the OPTIMIZER Smart
IPG. These effects can be caused by the radio frequencies emitted by the phones or by the
phones’ speaker magnets. Potential effects include inhibition of or inappropriate CCM
signal delivery if the phone is in very close proximity (within 25 cm / 10 in) of an
OPTIMIZER Smart IPG and the corresponding leads. Because of the great variety of
mobile phones as well as the significant physiologic differences between patients, it is
impossible make generally applicable recommendations.
As a general guideline, patients implanted with an OPTIMIZER Smart IPG who would
like to use a mobile phone are advised to hold the phone to the ear that is contralateral to
the implant site. Patients should not carry the phone in a breast pocket or on a belt closer
than 25 cm (10 in) from the implanted IPG because some phones emit signals even when
they are turned on but not in use.
Compared to smaller cell phones, portable (handbag) and mobile (permanent car or boat
installation) phones will generally transmit at higher power levels. For phones with
higher transmission power levels, it is recommended to maintain a minimum separation
of 50 cm (20 in) between the antenna and the implanted IPG.
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