Medtronic SureScan Pacemaker -- having problems

Anyone out there having problems with the MedTronic SureScan pacemaker. Implanted eight weeks ago. Having problems with heart racing on the upper end, like 180+ bpm during moderate exercise. Didn't have any such problems before getting the pacemaker, only a very infrequent A-V block problem. Lots of adjustments since implantation, but worried that this (new) type of pacemaker may have unforeseen issues.

2 Comments

racing

by Tracey_E - 2015-04-03 02:04:00

It's possible your atria WAS racing before, but with the block the signal didn't get through to the ventricles. Now that you are paced, the pm kicks in every time the atria beats but the ventricles do not keep up. I have this problem and take a low dose beta blocker to stop the racing. It's always fun explaining to a new dr that I'm on meds for a fast atria, but have a pm for slow ventricle. I tell them my heart is a little schizo :)

Ask about rate response. It's a feature that senses activity and raises your rate for you. It's generally for sinus problems, not block, but sometimes they leave it turned on in case you need it. Theoretically it's just a back up but practically it can compete with your natural sinus rate and you might feel better with it turned off (assuming it's turned on now).

However, it won't pace you 180+. If you are going that fast, it's all you. Pm's can only pace to their upper limit. The max your model will do is either 150 or 180 (I can't remember but I think surescan is the one that only goes to 150). None of them will do more than 180, and it's unusual for it to be set higher than 130-140 unless you need it.

Pacers all work basically the same, nothing about this one is different other than the fact it is mri safe.

Parameters

by kbell - 2015-04-13 10:04:26

Hello BobC:

I just got a MedTronic SureScan pacemaker 6 days ago and they are rate responsive so none of that should be happening, I am so sorry you have to go through this!

I am set at 60 BPM to 160 BPM for the first month but SureScans are capable of hitting 210 BPM later.

I have a few questions if you don't mind. You can just send me a message if you wish.

What are your current low and high parameters settings and what type of exercise were you doing? .

Are you rate responsive only or also antitachycardia (ATP) pacing?

Kimberly

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