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Updated: Mar 20, 2026
07:29
Programmed Electrical Stimulation in Mice
Published on: May 26, 2010
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Extra-cardiac stimulators: what do cardiologists need to know?
Alexandre Guinand1, Stéphane Noble1, Angela Frei1
1Division of Cardiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Gabrielle Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
Summary
Cardiologists now encounter patients with
Area of Science:
- Neuromodulation and device-based therapies.
- Interdisciplinary applications of electrical stimulation.
Background:
- Historically, pacemakers were exclusively managed by cardiologists.
- Recent advancements have expanded electrical stimulation to diverse medical fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce cardiologists to 'extra-cardiac pacemakers'.
- To highlight potential challenges during cardiac procedures for these patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of non-cardiac electrical stimulation applications.
- Discussion of clinical implications for cardiology.
Main Results:
- Electrical stimulation is now used in neurology, pain management, and urology.
- These 'extra-cardiac pacemakers' target the brain, spinal cord, and various nerves.
Conclusions:
- Cardiologists must be aware of non-cardiac neuromodulation devices.
- Understanding these devices is crucial for safe patient management during cardiac interventions.
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