Multiprogrammable pacemakers

Since 1962 it has been possible to change, by noninvasive means, the functions of implanted pacemakers. This study reports a 3-year multicentre experience, in 164 patients, with a multiprogrammable pacemaker that offers a wide range of choices within five variables: mode, rate, pulse width, sensitivity and telemetry (over 3000 combinations). In a selected series 83% of implanted pacemakers were programmed for medical indications and 100% for multiparameter follow-up studies. The advantage and disadvantages of three are compared. There is little doubt that multiprogrammable pacemakers can reduce the frequency of reoperation in any large series.