capsule endoscopy/pacemaker

A capsule endoscopy is being considered for me.  I have a pacemaker.  Are there any members with a pacemaker who have had a capsule endoscopy? It would be very helpful to me to know what your experience was like, and whether the capsule endoscopy was done on an outpatient basis.  What I am reading seems contradictory---FDA says no; a 2014 article posted through Medscape says O.K.  

3 Comments

What is the question?

by Gotrhythm - 2017-06-08 17:59:31

I don't understand. The FDA says no to what?

clarification capsule endoscopy/pacemaker

by levente - 2017-06-09 13:07:47

I am sorry if my first  posting was unclear.  I will try again.   There is a question as to whether it is safe to use a capsule endoscopy (a diagnostic test) when the patient has a pacemaker---due to interference.   The FDA recommends against the capsule endoscopy for those with pacemakers, ,  but some research suggests it is safe  to do the test.  My posting was wondering whether anyone with a pacemaker has had the experience of having a capsule endoscopy.  I was wondering in addition if there was any extra monitoring (if the test  was done) given the question of safety.   

my totally inexpert opinion

by Gotrhythm - 2017-06-10 13:57:34

It sounds like you are nervous about you pacemaker. Understandable, but there may be some information that you're relying on that's out of date.

Once upon a time, in the last century, pacemakers were succeptible to interference. But today's pacemakers are very well shielded and very little affects them.

If you're really worried talk with your doctor. Ask how likely it is that the test will afftect your pacemaker. Ask what safety measures are in place to make  sure your pacemaker will still be working when the test is over.

You know you're wired when...

You play MP3 files on your pacer.

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