257 – Safe Use of Electrical Stimulators

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE

When using the STMISOC, STMISOD or STMISOE stimulus isolation adapter, it is possible to generate high peak-peak voltages. These voltages are potentially damaging, especially if the high voltage outputs are connected from the stimulator across the heart of the subject–meaning that the heart is potentially in the electrical path from lead to lead. This occurs when stimulation electrodes are placed on opposite sides of the body.

When using the STM200 or STMISOL/LA stimulation units it is similarly possible to generate high voltages. With these latter two units, however, extra precautions are required when using on subjects.

• NEVER PLACE STIMULATION ELECTRODES ON OPPPOSITE SIDES OF THE BODY
• NEVER PLACE STIMULATION ELECTRODES SO STIMULATION CURRENTS ARE PERMITTED TO FLOW THROUGH THE HEART

This application note details safety guidelines, regulatory standards, and setup for electrical stimulators, including electrial stimulators in the MRI, from BIOPAC.