Amusement park rides and cardiac devices: heart dropper or device stopper?
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Date
2025
Authors
Johnson, Alexander
Kassab, Mia
Kallas, Dania
Franciosi, Sonia
Bone, Jeffrey
Saravu Vijayashankar, Sakethram
Sanatani, Shubhayan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
UCC Medical Research and Technology Society
Published Version
Abstract
Background: Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are essential for managing cardiac conditions, but may malfunction due to magnetic fields >10,000mG. Roller coasters using linear induction motors (LIMs) generate magnetic fields, yet their potential for electromagnetic interference (EMI) with CIEDs is unclear. This study assesses magnetic field exposure on amusement rides and examines healthcare provider recommendations. Methods: Magnetic field strength was measured using gaussmeters placed at shoulder and abdomen levels, representing pediatric CIED sites. Rides at an amusement park were tested at least four times, recording median and maximum magnetic field strengths per second throughout the ride. Magnetic field strengths were compared between rides with health advisory messages (HAMs) and without (NHAMs). A survey was distributed to the Pediatric and Congenital Electrophysiology Society (PACES) and the Canadian Council of Cardiovascular Nurses to assess healthcare provider recommendations. Result
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Keywords
Amusement park rides , Cardiac devices
Citation
Johnson, A., Kassab, M., Kallas, D., Franciosi, S., Bone, J., Saravu Vijayashankar, S. and Sanatani, S. (2025) 'Amusement park rides and cardiac devices: heart dropper or device stopper?', UCC Student Medical Journal, 5, p.98. https://doi.org/10.33178/SMJ.2025.1.24