Management of complications associated with the use of implantable electronic cardiac pacemakers for the relief of complete heart block

1. 1. Problems arising in the operative and postoperative course of nineteen patients in whom a pacemaker has been implanted for the relief of complete heart block may be grouped into three categories: They are related to surgical technic, untoward myocardial response to pacemaking, and pacemaker failure. 2. 2. Pacemaker failure, either within the transistorized, battery-powered circuit or breakage of the electrode wires, has produced recurrent problems. 3. 3. Short of a radical departure in design concept, the necessity for longer electrode wire life, and an easy yet reliable method of replacing the power source is indicated. 4. 4. The subjective and objective response to electronic pacemaking warrant a vigorous approach to these problems.