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[Atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation by DDD stimulation]
Zeitschrift Fur Kardiologie
|September 1, 1985
Summary
Atrial flutter or fibrillation (AF) is common after DDD pacemaker implantation, even in patients without prior history. Previous atrial arrhythmias significantly increase AF incidence and recurrence rates.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Devices
Context:
- DDD pacemakers are widely used for managing bradyarrhythmias.
- Atrial arrhythmias, such as atrial flutter or fibrillation (AF), can complicate pacemaker therapy.
- Understanding the incidence and risk factors for AF post-implantation is crucial for patient management.
Purpose:
- To investigate the incidence of atrial flutter or fibrillation (AF) following DDD pacemaker implantation.
- To identify patient subgroups at higher risk for developing AF post-implantation.
- To analyze the characteristics and management of AF episodes in patients with DDD pacemakers.
Summary:
- A study followed 136 patients after DDD pacemaker implantation, observing 1,919 patient-months.
- 22 patients (16.2%) developed new-onset or recurrent AF. Patients with a history of AF had a significantly higher incidence (81.8%) compared to those without (7.4%).
- AF occurred early post-implantation in some patients and later in others, with varying ventricular rates and management strategies including antiarrhythmic drugs and atrial overdrive pacing.
Impact:
- Atrial flutter or fibrillation is a common complication of DDD pacemaker implantation, irrespective of prior history.
- Patients with pre-existing atrial arrhythmias are at substantially higher risk for developing AF post-pacemaker implantation.
- The findings underscore the need for careful monitoring and risk stratification in patients receiving DDD pacemakers, particularly those with a history of atrial arrhythmias.