Artificial Cardiac Pacemakers

Abstract

Complications of PacingDespite nearly a decade of experience with temporary and permanent pacemaker systems, complications and failures are the rule rather than the exception. Complications can be divided into two major types: those related to the insertion of the pacemaking system or to its presence within the body; and those related to its improper function.Insertion or Presence of PacemakerInsertion of a pacemaker carries some surgical risk. The epicardial technic involves direct exposure of the heart, with the consequent complications expected in an elderly and often debilitated population. The overall postoperative mortality after epicardial electrode insertion from a . . .