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Updated: May 24, 2026

Translational Rabbit Model of Chronic Cardiac Pacing
Published on: January 6, 2023
Temporary emergency pacing--an orphan in district hospitals
Insights
Temporary pacing in Norwegian hospitals led to long procedure times and frequent complications, especially when performed by non-cardiologists. Transferring patients with transcutaneous pacing may be safer than non-expert transvenous pacing.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Emergency Medicine
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- A review of one year of temporary pacing experiences in Norwegian district hospitals, focusing on emergency settings.
- The majority of procedures involved transvenous temporary pacing, often performed by non-cardiologists.
Discussion:
- Analysis of prolonged procedure times and a high frequency of complications associated with temporary pacing.
- Exploration of the organizational aspects of emergency pacing protocols.
- Recommendations for patient transfer with transcutaneous pacing if transvenous expertise is lacking.
Key Insights:
- Transvenous temporary pacing in emergency settings by non-specialists is associated with significant challenges.
- The need for improved training and resource allocation for emergency cardiac pacing.
- Patient safety concerns highlight the importance of procedural expertise.
Outlook:
- Advocacy for establishing 24/7 access to permanent pacemaker implantation for eligible patients.
- Potential for improved patient outcomes through optimized emergency pacing strategies and timely permanent solutions.
- Future research should focus on standardized training and outcome analysis for temporary pacing.
Abstract:
This editorial discusses a report on the 1 year experience with temporary pacing, especially in the emergency setting, in several Norwegian district hospitals. The vast majority of the patients received transvenous temporary pacing, and the majority of leads were placed by noncardiologists. The procedure times were long and complications were frequent. The organization of emergency pacing is discussed, and we suggest that unless qualified physicians can establish transvenous pacing, the patients who need that should be transferred with transcutaneous pacing as back-up during transport to a hospital with more available competence. Ideally, those who need pacing immediately, including those who need permanent pacing, should be offered permanent implantation on a 24 hours/7 days per week base.
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