Abrupt heart rate fallings in a patient with biventricular pacing: latent risk for exacerbation of heart failure

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2012 Mar;35(3):e55-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2010.02855.x. Epub 2010 Aug 18.

Abstract

This case report describes abrupt heart rate fallings below the lower pacing rate limit in a patient with cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Interrogated information including stored episodes or data regarding the lead did not show any device problems and only simultaneous intracardiac electrogram revealed the cause, T-wave oversensing during biventricular pacing. At this moment, CRT has become an established modality for patients with severe heart failure. However, bradycardia below the lower rate limit during biventricular pacing due to T-wave oversensing would exacerbate heart failure in patients with CRT. We should notice this latent risk and correct the malfunction immediately.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy / adverse effects*
  • Electrophysiologic Techniques, Cardiac
  • Heart Failure / diagnosis*
  • Heart Failure / physiopathology
  • Heart Failure / therapy
  • Heart Rate / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Risk
  • Treatment Outcome