battery powered and other implants that could cause problems during the cremation of human remains

Last reviewed 01/2018

Battery powered and other implants that could cause problems during the cremation of human remains

• pacemakers
  
  
• implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs)
  
  
• cardiac resynchronization therapy devices (CRTDs)
  
  
• implantable loop recorders
  
  
• ventricular assist devices (VADs): Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), Right ventricular assist devices (RVADs), or Biventricular assist devices BiVADs)
  
  
• implantable drug pumps including intrathecal pumps
  
  
• neurostimulators (including for pain & Functional Electrical Stimulation)
  
  
• bone growth stimulators
  
  
• hydrocephalus programmable shunts
  
  
• any other battery powered implant
  
  
• fixion nails
  
  
• dental mercury amalgam
  
  
• brachytherapy to the prostate, i.e. radioactive iodine-125 seeds (advice from the Department of Radiology and Urology at the Royal London Free and Whittington Hospitals states that iodine 125 seeds produce radiation for about one year, therefore if death occurs within 12 months following implantation the seeds should be removed)

Reference:

• Huntingdon NHS Primary Care Trust (2005). Policy for death verification and certification, cremation formas and coroners referrals
• Ministry of Justince.The Cremation (England and Wales) Regulations 2008.