Related Experiment Videos
Rate augmentation and atrial arrhythmias in DDDR pacing
W H Spencer1, T Markowitz, P Alagona
1Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 75246.
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Dual chamber, rate-modulated pacemakers (DDDR) effectively augment heart rate in patients with chronotropic incompetence. This study found DDDR pacing provides rate responsiveness without increasing atrial arrhythmias compared to standard DDD pacing.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Dual chamber pacemakers can improve heart rate but may induce atrial arrhythmias.
- Rate-modulated pacing offers potential benefits for patients with chronotropic incompetence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of dual chamber, rate-modulated (DDDR) pacing in augmenting heart rate.
- To assess the impact of DDDR pacing on atrial arrhythmias compared to standard DDD pacing.
Main Methods:
- Ten patients underwent 24-hour Holter monitoring with alternating DDD and DDDR pacing modes.
- Maximum heart rates were recorded every 15 minutes.
- Atrial arrhythmia events were quantified for both pacing modes.
Main Results:
- DDDR pacing demonstrated significant heart rate augmentation (average max HR 80±7) compared to DDD pacing (average max HR 76±5).
- During waking hours, DDDR pacing showed a more pronounced increase in average max HR (86±7) versus DDD pacing (78±4).
- No significant increase in atrial arrhythmias was observed with DDDR pacing (1.25 events/24h) compared to DDD pacing (1.75 events/24h).
Conclusions:
- DDDR pacing effectively provides heart rate augmentation during daily activities.
- DDDR pacing is a safe option for patients with chronotropic incompetence, without a significant rise in atrial arrhythmias.