Crossley GH, Brinker JA, Reynolds D, Spencer W, Johnson WB, Hurd H, Tonder L, Zmijewski M. Steroid elution improves the stimulation threshold in an active-fixation atrial permanent pacing lead. A randomized, controlled study. Model 4068 Investigators.
Circulation 1995;
92:2935-9. [PMID:
7586262 DOI:
10.1161/01.cir.92.10.2935]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND
Prior work suggests that the addition of a steroid-eluting reservoir to a passive-fixation permanent pacemaker lead improves the stimulation threshold; however, no large randomized study has addressed this tissue. Over the last several years, there has been an increase in enthusiasm for the use of active-fixation permanent pacemaker leads for various reasons in spite of the generally accepted notion that active-fixation leads have higher stimulation thresholds.
METHODS AND RESULTS
This multicenter, randomized, controlled study examined the difference in performance between a standard active-fixation atrial lead (Medtronic model 4058) and a steroid-eluting lead (Medtronic model 4068). Stimulation thresholds were obtained in a four-point strength-duration fashion. Evaluations of sensing and impedance were performed as well. These evaluations were performed at implantation, at weeks 1 through 4, and at weeks 6, 12, 24, and 52. Stimulation thresholds were significantly better in the steroid lead than in the nonsteroid lead at each measurement point from 1 week to 12 months. The mean 1.6-V stimulation threshold at 12 months was 0.19 +/- 0.2 ms in the steroid lead and 0.41 +/- 0.30 ms in the control lead. No acute peaking was observed with the steroid lead, whereas significant peaking was observed with the control lead. There was no difference in long-term sensing or impedance.
CONCLUSIONS
Inclusion of a steroid-eluting reservoir in an active-fixation permanent pacing lead improved stimulation thresholds in both the subacute and chronic periods and therefore should extend pulse-generator longevity.
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