Abstract

DIGBY, Genevieve C.; FEMENIA, Francisco  and  BARANCHUK, Adrián. Cardiac implantable devices and physiotherapy practices interaction: Myth or real?. Medicina (B. Aires) [online]. 2011, vol.71, n.2, pp.174-178. ISSN 0025-7680.

Several reports of negative interactions between physiotherapy practices and cardiac rhythm devices (CRDs) have been described in the literature. In spite of this, there is very little evidence to suggest the extent to which it is safe to use physiotherapy practices in this patient population. Here we summarize the documented interactions between physiotherapy and CRDs, discuss the current standard of practice for treating CRD patients, and outline the main considerations that exist from the arrhythmia service perspective in terms of patient and device factors. Finally, we advocate for a stronger cooperation between physiotherapists and the electrophysiology service team in order to safely and effectively deliver optimal physiotherapy care to CRD patients.

Keywords : Physiotherapy; Implantable devices; Pacemakers; Defibrillators.

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