A new study shows that iPad 2s can cause magnetic interference with cardiac rhythm devices and suspend life-saving anti-tachycardia therapy in patients. The research was conducted by a 14 year-old high school freshman and presented at Heart Rhythm 2013, the Heart Rhythm Society's 34th Annual Scientific Sessions.

Cardiac rhythm devices, including implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), can be affected by magnets and radiofrequency energy in products ranging from cell phones to MRI machines. Cardiac devices near magnets can switch to magnet mode and potentially disrupt needed therapy. The effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI) are most often temporary and occur when a magnet is placed in close proximity to the cardiac device. While previous studies have tested EMI in various products and environments, this is the first to look at the iPad 2 as a potential source of interference.

"iPad 2s use magnets to help secure the cover to the tablet. Since people hold tablets so close to their chest, I wanted to see if these magnets could affect cardiac device performance," said Gianna Chien, a freshman at Lincoln High School in Stockton, Calif., who conducted the study for her science fair project. "Since tablets are becoming more common, I hope these findings will encourage patients who have or may be a candidate for implantable defibrillators to talk to their doctor about precautions if they use a tablet like the iPad 2."

Twenty-six patients with ICDs held iPad 2s at reading distance and also placed the tablet on their chest to mimic falling asleep while using the iPad 2. While EMI was not detected when the tablet was placed at reading distance, 30 percent of patients had magnet mode triggered when the tablet was placed on their chest. The study also tested four patients with pacemakers and one patient with a loop recorder, though these devices did not show any interference.

Study findings were initially shared at the 55th annual San Joaquin County Science Fair in March, where Chien won second prize in the high school category. She also competed in the Sacramento Regional Science Fair, winning third in the health and chemistry division and a special award from the Society of Biomedical Research.

In addition, Chien received Honorable Mention at the California State Science Fair this April. Her father, Walter Chien, MD, is a cardiologist with Central Valley Arrhythmia in Stockton, Calif., and helped coordinate patient testing with his daughter.