Automatic Mode Switching

The pacemaker's automatic mode switching function (AMS) was mentioned in a recent post by Sullis65.

I found the topic interesting and believe I would benefit from it as I have a problem with A-fib.

I am hoping that someone can tell me if this function needs to be turned on by the technician to work or whether it is at work from Day One.

Canadian Kirk

4 Comments

AMS for Afib

by golden_snitch - 2014-04-12 01:04:23

Hi Kirk!

I guess that depends on your pacemaker manufacturer and model. In my Biotronik Evia AMS is on from the beginning, it's the standard/nominal setting, and I know that it is in Medtronic pacers, too.

BUT mode switching is not for everyone. As long as your AV-node functions normally, a mode switch when in Afib will probably not work. This is because the pacemaker cannot hinder the functioning AV-node from passing electrical impulses coming from the atria on to the ventricles. So, a mode switch usually only works in patients with heart block, at least according to my knowledge.

Inga

medtronics

by kmom - 2014-04-13 01:04:08

After reading a bit about my PM I do have an afib mode on mine. it's a medtronics surescan advisa. Right now it's switched off because I found out that for the first while it needs to be off until the leads are good and set in. not really sure how it works or even if they'll turn it on in my case but I do have afib

Medtronic features for atrial tachy-arrhythmias

by golden_snitch - 2014-04-13 03:04:27

Hi!

Kmom, that is a different set of features. The Medtronic Advisa has some features that shall help prevent or reduce episodes of atrial tachy-arrhythmias, like the Reactive ATP feature, MVP, atrial preference pacing etc. The mode switch Kirk was referring to doesn't stop or reduce Afib, it's only reaction to Afib is to switch to a mode where it does no longer care what's going on ("Let them fibrillate, I'll pace the ventricles only"; VVIR mode).

I remember that you are in Afib most of the time, so I guess your pacemaker mode is set to VVIR, without mode switch. And with nearly permanent Afib, I doubt that the special features mentioned above will be able to do anything for you. They are more for paroxysmal episodes, and from what a Medtronic tech told me, ATP for instance only works for atrial flutter, not for Afib. Ask your cardio about it.

Inga

I have NO idea!

by kmom - 2014-04-13 11:04:37

I was just mentioning what mine had--don't know about other features and other devices----- sorry. I do know that my PM is set at DDDR mode switch at 171; lower at 60; upper track at 130; upper sensor 130; paced AV; sensed AV. now whether I understand all that is a totally different animal hahaha! I have NO clue! I just know I feel better!!!

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