[How to: Basics of programming cardiac pacemakers]

Programming of implantable cardiac devices, especially dual-chamber pacemakers, can be challenging in daily clinical practice. Precise knowledge of programmable parameters is important; furthermore, one should also be familiar with the specific algorithms of each manufacturer. During programming, the patient's individual requirements should be taken into account, but out-of-the-box programming should be avoided. Another important goal of programming should be to stimulate as much as needed but as little as possible to provide the patient good exercise capacity while not being aware of the pacing. Manufacturers' algorithms can help reach these aims but need to be understood and-in case of inappropriate behavior-to be deactivated.