[2 years of clinical experiences with lithium pacemakers]

Between January 1974 and December 1976, 470 mercury-cell pacemakers and 353 lithium-cell pacemakers were implanted at Surgical Clinic A of the University Hospital of Zurich. Within the first 24 months 15.5% of the mercury-cell pacemakers had to be exchanged because of premature battery depletion and 1.3% due to dysfunction of electronic components. None of the lithium-cell pacemakers had to be removed for these reasons. In 6 lithium-cell pacemakers, however, overhaul was necessary because of sensing failure. One unit had to be removed after one year for local decubitus. In two cases, repositioning of the batteries was necessary because of local muscle stimulation.