Temporary cardiac pacing

Temporary cardiac pacing

It is a therapeutic method used to treat acute conditions in patients with a slow heart rate, where the heart is unable to provide nutrients to all organs and tissues. In these cases, it is necessary to ensure a sufficient heart rate by means of electrical impulses that induce cardiac contractions - via a stimulating electrode inserted into the right ventricle of the heart.

A temporary electrode is left in the heart and the stimulation is switched on until the heart's own sufficient heart rate is restored. The temporary pacemaker is carried by the patient, usually attached to the arm. Due to the sensitivity of the pacing electrode to elevation with the risk of subsequent pacing failure, manipulation of the pacing system should be avoided. Changes of position should therefore preferably be performed with the assistance of a nurse. If the slow heart rate persists, a permanent pacemaker is implanted during the hospital stay or at a time that takes into account any associated diseases.

The insertion procedure is the same as for a permanent pacemaker, see permanent pacing.