Effects of Pacemaker Implantation on Sudden Cardiac Death Rate and Quality of Life in Atrial Fibrillation Patients With Ventricular Pauses

Abstract

Ventricular arrest is a rare arrhythmic disease in the clinic; 35% to 55% of cases are associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). It is well known that ventricular arrest for ≥3 seconds can lead to brain symptoms such as dizziness and even syncope, but it is not clear whether ventricular pauses (≥3 seconds) with AF will lead to sudden cardiac death. If the implantation of a pacemaker can improve the quality of life of patients with permanent AF with ventricular arrest and whether it has a long-term protective effect on sudden cardiac death. To this end, we conducted a prospective follow-up observation study, which was conducted through telephone interviews and clinical hospital observation to obtain information on the quality of life, survival rate, and other details. The results show that for patients with permanent AF with ventricular arrest, pacemaker implantation cannot reduce sudden cardiac death, cardiovascular events, and stroke nor can it improve the cumulative survival rate. Fortunately, the implantation of pacemakers can improve the quality of life of patients.