Luis Quiñiñir-Salvatici, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Centro Cardiovascular, Hospital Dr. Hernán Henríquez Aravena, Temuco, Chile
Carlos Ruiz-Hidalgo, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Centro Cardiovascular, Hospital Dr. Hernán Henríquez Aravena, Temuco, Chile
Víctor Neira-Vidal, División de Cardiología, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canadá
Adrian Baranchuk, División de Cardiología, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canadá
The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) prevents sudden cardiac death, but may deliver inappropriate shocks due to electromagnetic interference. We report the case of a 69-year-old woman with a triple-chamber ICD who experienced shocks while showering, associated with electrical leakage in her home caused by faulty wiring. Device interrogation revealed electromagnetic interference signals coinciding with water use. After repairing the household electrical system, no further episodes occurred. This case underscores the importance of identifying non-medical electromagnetic interference sources, conducting technical environmental assessments, and educating patients on proper home electrical maintenance. Timely intervention can prevent inappropriate shocks and improve the safety and quality of life of ICD recipients.
Keywords: Defibrillator. Inappropriate discharge. Electromagnetic interference.
