QT-related rate-responsive pacing during acute myocardial infarction

Abstract

We studied the findings in a patient who had a TX 915 pacemaker and who was suffering from an acute inferior myocardial infarction. On admission, we observed pacing at the upper rate limit due to excessive adrenergic tone. Shortly thereafter a strong vagal reaction occurred, and the pacing rate fell back to the lower rate limit. This condition was improved with atropine.

Conclusions: (1) In the described condition the TX pacemaker behaved in a very "physiological" fashion; (2) Sudden strong cholinergic activity lengthened the QT interval; (3) Programming of a steep slope must be avoided in coronary artery disease; (4) Stimulus-T-wave intervals at maximal adrenergic and cholinergic stimulation should be taken into account when programming the slope and the T-wave sensing window.