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

 

[John-Edmonton]

http://www.garrett.com/contact.asp

 

[Uncle Willy]

I'm not sure on this so I would contact Garrett and make sure.

Bill

 

[Pyrites Pete]

Bob
I have a pacemaker fitted for about 18 months now. My specialist advised me to give away detecting, I was not amused. When questioning him on the levels of radiation he could not expand.
I decided to reseach a little further. Purchased a TRIFIELD meter and went testing.
Here is what I found

Minelab GP EXTREME to much RF Sold the Detector
Minelab GP 3500 " " " " " "
Minelab Explorer " " "
Minelab Extera 70 " " "
Garrett Ace 250 OK
Garrett GTI 2500 OK [ Watch out for 12.5" coil though]
Hope this helps Stan

 

[Terry in PA]

News to me. Never heard of that before? Fun any how so lets dig dig dig!

 

[DavHut]

Every detector RADIATES a directional electromagnetic field - it's how they work. It's the strengh of that field that is of concern. Neat topic...

 

[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.

As advised I called Garrett. They said there has never been a report of a Garrett detector causing an adverse reaction in a pacemaker or defibrillator.

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