Abstract
One of the programmable parameters in recent pacemakers is atrio-ventric ular interval. To find out the optimum A-V interval studies were done in 14 patients. Multigated radionuclide scans were used to measure the left ventricu lar function, at a resting heart rate of 70/minute. Seven patients had poor left ventricles (ejection fraction < 50%). Left ventricular ejection fraction, relative cardiac output and end diastolic counts were highest at 250 M. Sec. interval compared to 150. Ejection rates and end systolic counts were not related to A-V interval. Relative cardiac output was 27% higher in poor ventricles at 250 delay than 150. This observation was not significant in normal hearts. Optimum P-R interval is 250 M. Sec. for maximum left ventricular function.
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