Implantable neurostimulators and the EMC environment

Implantable neurostimulators are a type of active implantable medical device (AIMD) whose use is growing rapidly as new medical therapies are developed that utilize electrical stimulation of the central or peripheral nervous system. Although these AIMDs share much technology with pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators, including electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) control methods, the type of interactions that may occur can differ. The characteristics, technology and types of interactions these AIMDs may experience with the EMC environment are discussed in this paper. The intent is to provide designers of electromagnetic emitters and implantable neurostimulators insight into the types of issues that may need to be considered in their designs and labeling so that the risk to patients with implantable neurostimulators is minimized.