Inappropriate rate response in a VVI-R pacemaker.
The search for a pacemaker that accurately and easily mimics normal physiology is a continuing effort. Present pacing developments include AV synchrony and rate adaptiveness. The usefulness and clinical value of some of the new pacing systems remain unclear. Although the hemodynamic advantages of rate responsive pacing over classical ventricular pacing are well established (Kristensson et al., 1985), an ideal sensor for physiological demands has not been established. We report a case of apparently unequivocal increase in heart rate during upper limb movements in a patient with a VVI-R pacemaker using minute ventilation as a sensor. Inappropriate heart rate acceleration may result from changes in transthoracic impedance due to upper limb exercise and it does not necessarily represent sensor malfunction. Although this complication is well-known in VVI-R pacemakers using respiratory rate or minute ventilation as sensor (Santomauro et al., 1992), one must remain aware of this sensor-related problem. In this particular patient the problem could be solved by implanting the pacemaker can more medially.
Vanderheyden
M
M
Cardiovascular Center, O.L.V. Ziekenhuis, Aalst, Belgium.
Timmermans
W
W
Goethals
M
M
D000368:Aged; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000628:therapy; D017097:Electric Impedance; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005080:Exercise Test; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects*