CLINICAL INTEREST OF A SENSOR DRIVEN ALGORITHM LIMITING VENTRICULAR PACING RATE DURING SUPRAVENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA IN DUAL CHAMBER PACING

A sensor driven algorithm limiting ventricular pacing rate during supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is included in a dual chamber rate modulated pacemaker sensitive to acceleration forces (Relay, 294-03, Intermedics Inc.). According to the intensity of concomitant exercise, the ventricular pacing rate is limited either to the programmed maximum pacing rate (MPR) or to an interim lower limit, called "conditional ventricular tracking limit" (CVTL). The MPR prevails over the CVTL when the sensor calculated pacing rate exceeds the minimal rate by more than 20 beats/min. The purpose of the study is to determine the clinical safety and efficacy of this algorithm in patients with intermittent SVT. Method: a Relay was implanted in four patients with a bradycardia/tachycardia syndrome and in four patients with complete atrioventricular block (CAVB). All had episodes of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia. The units were programmed in DDDR: rate responsive parameters were adjusted by simulating the rate response during three levels of exercise to let the MPR override the CVTL only during strenuous exercise. Holter monitors and exercise testings were performed at 3-month follow-up. Results: in seven patients, Holter recordings showed supraventricular arrhythmias at rest with a ventricular pacing rate limited to the CVTL. Appropriate rate increases during exercise testings were also demonstrated. Three devices had to be reprogrammed in DDIR (one patient suffering from nearly permanent atrial flutter and two patients not tolerating the CVTL pacing rate at rest). Conclusion: the CVTL algorithm is effective in protecting against high ventricular pacing rates during supraventricular arrhythmias. It allows the selection of the DDDR mode even with a high MPR in patients with intermittent SVT.