[20-year experience with continuous endocardial stimulation of the heart]

Twenty years' experience with continuous endocardial stimulation of the heart is summed up. The bulk of the reviewed data falls to the period of 1980 through 1985, when 1776 primary implantations were performed, whereas more than 3,000 implantations have been performed in the past 6 years. Opinions are voiced on many aspects related to endocardial stimulation. Endocardial application of electrodes is believed to be the principal method, while myocardial stimulation should only be done simultaneously with heart surgery. Electrode application via puncture is discussed with special reference to its advantages (possible application of two electrodes at once, small cosmetic defect) and possible side effects. The results obtained with a borer electrode, designed by the authors, are reported (130 cases). Complications associated with developing rhythm competition are discussed. It is proposed that the manufacture of asynchronous pacemakers be limited considerably, and that they should mostly be implanted in cases of clinically manifest myopotential inhibition.