Can You Be Cremated With a Pacemaker?

Pacemakers and other battery-powered devices must be removed before cremation since they pose a safety risk. The lithium batteries used in pacemakers will likely explode when exposed to high temperatures during cremation, and these explosions can seriously harm the staff or damage the crematory chamber at the facility. If your loved one had a pacemaker before death, the funeral home or crematory has trained staff who are experienced in the proper removal of these implanted devices. Even so, it is crucial to proactively notify them of the presence of any devices before the cremation process begins. 

During the discussion regarding removing the pacemaker, you will be asked to decide what should be done with the device after removal. The most common options include recycling pacemaker materials, donating them so they can be reconditioned to help other individuals, or returning the device ot the manufacturer for research purposes. Many individuals find it comforting to know that their loved one’s pacemaker can be repurposed to function as a lifesaving measure for someone else in need of the device.

 In summary, the removal of a pacemaker prior to cremation is paramount in the prevention of safety hazards in the funeral home or crematory. This key precaution ensures that the retort is not damaged, staff are not harmed, and cremated remains are preserved as requested. 

Sources 

“Why a Pacemaker Should Be Removed Prior to Cremation”. Neptune Society. https://neptunesociety.com/resources/cremation-planning/why-pacemaker-should-be-removed-prior-to-cremation 

“Can You Be Cremated With a Pacemaker?” Farewill. https://farewill.com/articles/can-you-be-cremated-with-a-pacemaker 

“Can recycled pacemakers from the U.S. save lives overseas?” University of Michigan. https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/can-recycled-pacemakers-us-save-lives-overseas