The Effect of Metal Detector Gates on Implanted Permanent Pacemakers

The effect of metal detector security gates, such as are used in airports, was tested in 103 nonselected pacemaker patients. Various types of single and dual chamber units were examined, using telemetry during the test. Pulse rate and duration were measured immediately before and after the procedure. No ill effect was seen on any of the units tested, pacemaker inhibition was not observed, and programmability was not affected. Metal detector security gates have no effect on implanted permanent pacemakers.