The impact of pending technologies on a universal connector standard

Standardization of pacemaker lead connectors promises to aid clinical practice. In the past, clinician concern for continued innovation has moderated calls for standardization. Today, connector standards are under consideration in the International Pacemaker Standards Working Group. Reliability, compatibility with existing implanted leads, and interchangeability between bipolar and unipolar leads are among the clinical concerns the standard process must address. Pending technologies will limit the future utility of the standard or be impeded by its regulatory imposition. Well-informed decision making in the standards process combined with a practical appraisal of the impact on future technology will help assure that, in balance, a net benefit to clinical practice results from connector standardization. The issues warrant broad review and discussion among individuals and groups interested in pacing.