Abstract
Objectives: To evaluate the results of programming parameters to optimize right ventricular (RV) pacing in patients with sinus node dysfunction received pacemaker implantation. Methods: We analysed 40 patients with sinus node dysfunction received permanent pacemaker implantation (both single- and dual-chamber) according to the recommendations of ACC/AHA/HRS and ESC. All patients were followed up and programmed pacemakers at the hospital and 3 months after implantation. Results: The mean age was 63.2 ± 13.8. Male gender was 60%. Sinus bradycardia accounted for 45.0%, sinus arrest and/or sinoatrial block was 32.5% and tachycardia - bradycardia syndrome was 22.5%. DDD and DDDR modes accounted for 15.0% and 37.5%, respectively. Programming parameters for RV pacing otimization included: basic rate/night rate, hysteresis, capture control; and on dual-chamber pacemakers included: AV delay, AV hysteresis mode. There was a significant change in ventricular pacing percentage (Vp %), ventricular pulse amplitude (V), and calculated ERI (month) (p < 0.001). Complications of permanent pacemaker implantation were uncommon; Atrial high rate episodes (AHRE) recorded by dual chamber pacemakers accounted for 23.8%. Conclusions: Optimal programming for RV pacing is valuable in minimize unnecessary RV pacing, thereby prolonging the pacemake calculated ERI and avoiding the detrimental cardiovascular outcomes of chronic RV apical pacing.