AUTOMATIC SENSOR ADJUSTMENT IN A RATE MODULATED PACEMAKER

A new feature (AutoSlope) has been introduced that can automatically a djust the sensor slope based on the chronic activity level of the pati ent. The algorithm adjusts the slope once per week so that 99% of the sensor response is maintained between the base rate and 23% of the dif ference between the programmed Base Rate and the Max Sensor Rate. Offs ets are available for fine titration of sensor response in individual patients. The AutoSlope feature was evaluated in 93 patients with DDDR pacemakers (Trilogy DR+, Pacesetter). Patients were seen at 1, 3, and 6 months for a total of 178 evaluations. At each evaluation, the Auto Slope value was recorded. Patients then performed a brisk walk at sens or values equivalent to the AutoSlope value. Desired sensor rate was c ompared to the rate achieved by AutoSlope for the exercise period. Lon gterm sensor performance was evaluated by analyzing the sensor histogr am. AutoSlope provided the desired sensor rate in most patients. Use o f AutoSlope offsets allows fine titration of rate modulation in indivi dual patients. Ongoing changes in sensor performance provided by AutoS lope allow patients to achieve a desired sensor rate from one evaluati on to another without changes in permanent programmed settings. Progra mming a low maximum sensor rate may limit sensor response in some pati ents.