PM times a pulse like EFI times a squirt.

Looking for information on how the PM's parts sense and chose when and what to output to the leads.  I can't help but look at my devise like I would the ignition and EFI in my bike and car.  There's good stuff on line but it seems to skip over what I need to know.  

I'm new to the club and impressed by the level of discourse here.  ICKABOD

4 Comments

EFI?

by AgentX86 - 2022-04-15 22:34:05

Not quite but similar. At its simplest a pacemaker has a timer that counts down at a specific rate. if it gets to zero, it emits a  "spark" and the timer is reset. If it detects a "spark" from elsewhere, it resets the timer and starts counting again.  The result is the rate can't drop below the counter value but it can go above it. We like to say that a pacemaker is an accelerator, not a brake.

There are many variations on the above theme, depending on your situation it can get complicated but the basic concept is pretty simple.

Not Quite EFI

by Ickabod - 2022-04-17 11:34:04

Thank you, AgentX86.  Your answer nails down my first question about PMs:  Do they lead or follow?  

Lead or follow

by AgentX86 - 2022-04-18 00:36:42

The answer is "yes" and tPMs can do both simultaneously.  The RA lead can follow while the LV lead, leads, in the same heartbeat.  This is common or constant in those with a heart block. The PM is replacing the AV node, which carries the signal from the atria to the ventricles.  The PM senses the signal from the SI node, delays an appropriate amount, then starts the ventricular contraction.

 

Lead or Follow

by Ickabod - 2022-04-26 11:19:40

So it does both.  Thanks.  Wouldn't two leads use more battery power than one?  And a higher sensitivity threshold would use more than a lower and more sensitive threshold, generally speaking?  There wasn't time enough at my electrophysiology appointment to get answers to my questions about my device.  

Abbott - PG - PM2272 - 3825374  

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At age 20, I will be getting a pacemaker in few weeks along with an SA node ablation. This opportunity may change a five year prognosis into a normal life span! I look forward to being a little old lady with a wicked cane!