Electromagnetic interference of permanent pacemakers by mobile phones in Thailand.

The possible permanent pacemaker function interference by mobile telephones is concerned worldwide. Previous studies from the other countries with different mobile telephone systems and permanent pacemakers provided useful but indirect information. We in vitro studied the interaction between local mobile telephones and permanent pacemakers in Thailand. Seventeen mobile telephones from different systems and brands were tested in the laboratory with seven permanent pacemakers from different companies. We found no interference in the function of permanent pacemakers. The application of the information may be limited from the in vitro nature of the study. However this would be the useful reference for the future in vivo study.