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Published on: February 28, 2012
New onset of pacemaker dependency after permanent pacemaker implantation
Toshihisa Nagatomo1, Haruhiko Abe, Kan Kikuchi
1Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan.
New pacemaker dependency occurred in 4.4% of patients, particularly those with AV block. This highlights risks associated with pacemaker implantation and long-term follow-up needs.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Pacemaker dependency poses significant risks, including mortality.
- Understanding the incidence of new pacemaker dependency is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of new pacemaker dependency in patients with intrinsic rhythms at the time of pacing system implantation during long-term follow-up.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 518 patients (mean age 72.9 years) with various pacing indications (SSS, AV block, AF with bradycardia) were followed for a mean of 3.7 years.
- Pacemaker dependency was defined as the absence of intrinsic rhythm during backup pacing.
- Incidence rates were analyzed based on pacing indications.
Main Results:
- New pacemaker dependency developed in 23 patients (4.4%) after a mean of 3.1 years.
- Patients with atrioventricular (AV) block had a significantly higher incidence (7.2%) compared to sick sinus syndrome (SSS) (2.2%).
- The average annual rate of new pacemaker dependency was 1.6% over 8 years.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of new pacemaker dependency varies by indication, being notably higher in AV block patients.
- Long-term monitoring is essential to identify and manage pacemaker dependency, especially in vulnerable patient groups.
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