EVALUATION OF TEMPORARY ATRIAL-PACING LEADS

Thirty-five patients were randomized to receive either the Medtronic 6 500 or one of two braided multifilament temporary pacing leads in the atrium following open heart surgery. Sensing performance was judged by amplitude, slew rate, and the proportion of patients with an adequate sensing threshold. Pacing performance was assessed with measures of i mpedance, threshold voltage, current, and energy. The Medtronic 6500 d emonstrated superior sensing and lower energy consumption compared to braided multifilament leads. This type of lead may offer advantages wh en using atrial synchronous temporary pacing systems.