Role of permanent pacemakers in the pharmacologic therapy of patients with reentrant tachyarrhythmias

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 1988 Jan;11(1):83-92. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.1988.tb03931.x.

Abstract

Improved pacemaker technology has permitted application in more diverse groups of patients. A more recently described subset appears to be those with reentrant tachycardias treatable with antiarrhythmic drugs. Here, pacing offers the ability both to test the efficacy of a drug regimen and to provide adjunctive "fail-safe" therapy for those with episodic breakthrough. With the advent of more sophisticated devices, especially those with cardioversion/defibrillation capability, we anticipate a growing interest in these applications which will undoubtedly benefit patients.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Electrocardiography
  • Electrophysiology
  • Heart Conduction System / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Pacemaker, Artificial*
  • Tachycardia, Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry / physiopathology
  • Tachycardia, Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry / therapy*
  • Tachycardia, Sinoatrial Nodal Reentry / physiopathology
  • Tachycardia, Sinoatrial Nodal Reentry / therapy*
  • Tachycardia, Supraventricular / therapy*

Substances

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents