Are pacemaker/defibrillators and metal detectors compatible?

[Hunt4Fun]

A good friend of mine has an implanted combination pacemaker and defibrillator. He is very eager to go metal detecting with me but is afraid to because of the magnetic field generated by the detector. He has been advised by his doctor to avoid strong magnetic fields that might interfere with proper operation of his implant.

I have two questions. First, has anyone heard of a coin detector type of metal detector causing an adverse reaction in a pacemaker or defibrillator? Second, do any of you detectorists have an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator? If for any reason you do not want to answer one or both of these questions publicly, please send me a PM.

As long as it is safe for him, I would like to teach him what I know about detecting. Both he and I are convinced that he would really enjoy detecting.

All replies will be appreciated,
Bob

 

[KCK]

Very impressive counter good neighbor. I'm sure your friend would love it.

 

[Tony N (Michigan)]

I found the information below at this web site:
http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=24

Devices with little or no risk [to pacemakers]
Home appliances

 

[BiLL IL]

My hunting partner has the pacemaker/defibulator combination implant and he hunts all the time with no adverse effects. I would say go for it.

HH BiLL IL

 

[Hunt4Fun]

Thanks everyone for your replies.

I posted this same question on quite a few of the forums. All of your replies have been printed and presented to my friend.

Also gave him a printout of a PDF file from www.guidant.com. It gives a lot of practical information about the strength of the magnetic fields of various electrical/electronic devices.

I have continuously told him to wait for a green light from his doctor and/or his device manufacturer. I am just trying to arm him with information.


Thanks again everyone, Bob