Topband: Fwd: RF Issues with Heart Pacemakers

[Mpridesti]

Hi George
> 
> Several years ago my XYL went through the same and had a pacemaker put in. At the time, I was seriously into contesting and at one time I had multiple stations in a multi multi setup. During that time I had concerns too and invited the Medtronics tech to my house to confirm no issues. Amazingly my wife was ok doing what I considered a worse case test. Fired up 4 stations, 1500 watts each, with what yagis were in play, all pointed to the house. Thought I might affect the laptop/sensing unit from the tech but no. Not a single issue with anything (Good!). Closest tower was 100 ft away. 
> 
> Not sure if it’s exactly the same unit but the Medtronics stuff excellent in this environment.  I don’t think you will have any problems. 
> 
> Regards,
> 
> Mark, K1RX
> 
> 
>> On Mar 8, 2020, at 10:24 AM, George Taft via Topband <topband at contesting.com> wrote:
>> 
>> A few years ago, my Cardiologist was recommending a pacemaker for my heart health.  I was concerned over RF issues with my DX operating and polled the TB reflector for personal reports from those who current had pacemakers installed.  I got several encouraging reports, but at that time my heart health was stable and I opted not to have it done.
>> 
>> I currently suffer from A-fib and the condition is worse than that previous period.  My Cardiologist is now recommending a new pacemaker device:  Medtronics Micra.  It  is installed directly into a heart chamber and has a supposedly battery life of ten years or more. My specialist says there is no danger from RF issues with the "Micra" implant.
>> 
>> I mostly operate low bands on my two phased arrays which are some distance (400 - 500 ft) from my shack.  And of course I use an Amp with output of 1000-1500 w.
>> 
>> Is there anyone on the TB reflector with experience with this new pacemaker device?  I would appreciate comments either on or off line, thanks
>> 
>> 73  George  W8UVZ
>> _________________
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