Quality of life in DDD-paced patients

The aim of the study was to evaluate the quality of life in patients with D DD pacemakers. Material and Methods The study group consisted of 343 patients (181F, 162M), mean age 66.7+/-12. 5 years (range from 19 to 92) in whom DDD pacemakers were implanted between 1992 and 1998 due to sick sinus syndrome (213 patients) or AV block (130 p atients). Follow-up ranged from 111 to 2574 days, mean 924.58+/-550 days. T he QOL was assessed by means of an original questionnaire mailed to the pat ients. Results A significant improvement in the general well-being (p<0.001), physical cap acity (p<0.005) and concentration (p<0.025) was found after pacemaker impla ntation. The incidence of syncope decreased after implantation (p<0.001). T he patients complained of limited arm movement (50.1%), fear of pacemaker d ysfunction (41.4%), resignation from job (17.2%), restriction of physical a ctivity (15.7%), necessity for follow-up check-ups (15.7%) and limitation o f sexual activity (10.2%). There were no significant differences in the QOL between SSS and AVE patients. In conclusion, we found a significant improvement in QOL after DDD pacemake r implantation. Quality-of-life evaluations may be useful in the management of DDD paced patients.