FDA warns that CT scans can interfere with pacemakers or defibrillator function

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning last month to doctors who treat patients with electronic devices such as pacemakers, cardiac defibrillators and insulin pumps. Judith Graham of the Chicago Tribune reports that the FDA public health alert cautioned doctors that these types of medical devices can malfunction when patients get computerized tomography (CT) scans. The health alert can be found here.

There have been six confirmed reports of devices that malfunctioned after a CT scan and nine other reports of suspected problems. No deaths have occurred as a result of this complication.

In its alert, the FDA warned that devices that could be affected by CT scans include pacemakers, implantable defibrillators, neurostimulators, drug infusion and insulin pumps, cochlear implants and retinal implants. Millions of Americans are equipped with these devices-- which use electrical current to help various organs overcome functional deficiencies. Among other measures, the alert recommends that CT operators use the least amount of X-ray exposure possible and stand prepared to treat adverse reactions.

From legal perspective, medical malpractice occurs when a doctor, hospital, or other health care provider fails, or breaches, their duty to care for a patient. In the case where a CT scan is scheduled for a patient equipped with a defibrillator or pacemaker, the FDA alert warns doctors to take certain precautions to ensure the medical device does not malfunction-- since it is forseeable that complication and injury can occur if the condition is ignored. If you think a healthcare professional made a mistake treating your condition, the first thing you should do is seek legal advice. The lawfirm of Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C. has sucessfully fought for patients who have received negligent healthcare at the hands of doctors and hospitals. If you have questions or comments about this blog post call Chris Hurley at 312-553-4900.