Clinical significance of multiple sensor options: Rate response optimization, sensor blending, and trending

The gold standard for rate modulation is the sinus node. To improve the rat e modulation provided by artificial sensors, new sensors have to be develop ed or 2 different sensor systems can be combined within a single device. As sociation combination of a sensor with a rapid-response fast-rate increase sensor (activity) and a progressive, more specific sensor (QT ventilation) is generally used. Sensor combinations require adequate sensor blending for signal production and prioritization during rate modulation. However, in t he new devices, some other aspects of rate modulation could be taken into c onsideration, particularly circadian rate variations to obtain lower rates at nighttime than during daytime, and automatic adaptation of the slope of rate increase during exercise, according to the patient's fitness, heart fu nction, age, etc. Despite the need for automaticity, manual programming cou ld continue to be useful to adapt rate modulation with data from sensor tre nding memories. (C) 1999 by Excerpta Medico, Inc.