Since the first pacemaker implantation in October 1958 by Senning and Elmqvist in Sweden, cardiac pacing for bradycardia has become a well-established therapy. The impressive growth of clinical experience and the rapid development of pacemaker devices have greatly contributed to this situation. The electrical therapy appears to be so easy that insertion of the lead and its connection to the pacemaker generator requires little effort, skill or insight. However, after implantation a patient's condition seldom remains stable, which requires a flexible pacing program to cover all new cardiac events, and broad insight from clinician and technical colleagues. The Pacemaker Clinic of the 90's teaches anatomical and electrophysiological aspects of pacing, supports the prevention of complications, and points to new developments in the field. Apart from classical indications for cardiac pacing, the book discusses the validity of the latest indications, supporting the cardiologist and the associated professional in selecting the appropriate pacing mode and pacemaker follow-up in individual patients. The Pacemaker Clinic of the 90's will be a helpful companion for years to come.

Inhalt

Section 1: The anatomical electrical interface. 1. Cardiac anatomy in perspective of cardiac pacing; A.E. Becker. 2. The electrical electrode-myocard interface; F.H.M. Wittkampf. Section 2: Considerations before implant of a pacemaker. 3. Timing cycles in dual-chamber adaptive rate pacemakers and the consequences for programming; J.H. Ruiter, J.P.M. Corstjens. 4. Pacing in elderly patients: pre-operative evaluation and pacemaker selection; R. van Mechelen, et al. 5. Single lead atrial synchronized ventricular (VDD) pacing; J.C. Pitts Crick. Section 3: Prevention of pacemaker complications. 6. Prevention and treatment of pacemaker infection; J.A.M.T. Defauw, et al. 7. Technical follow-up of implanted pacemakers; P. van der Kemp, L. Bakema. 8. A stepwise approach to solve pacemaker problems; B.M. van Gelder, F.A.L.E. Bracke. 9. Cardiac arrhythmias and the interaction with pacemakers; L. Jordaens. Section 4: Miscellaneous aspects. 10. Cardiac simulation as nonpharmacological treatment of heart failure; P.F.A. Bakker. 11. The interplay between radiofrequency catheter ablation of arrhythmias and cardiac pacing; N.M. van Hemel. 12. Cardiac pacing in children, special skills needed? M.Th.E. Bink-Boelkens, G.C.M. Beaufort-Krol. 13. Cardiac pacing in Europe Anno 1993; H. Ector, G.A. Feruglio. 14. The safety and medico-legal responsibilities of the pacemaker implantation team; B.A.J.M. de Mol. Index.