Cardiac Pacing Leads: An Overview of Pacing Leads

Cardiac
pacing leads play a crucial role in cardiac pacemaker systems by electrically
connecting the pacemaker generator to the heart. Modern pacemaker leads are
thin, insulated wires that end in one or more electrodes for delivering electrical
pulses to the heart. Different types of leads exist depending on the location
of stimulation required and the physiology of the patient. This article
provides an overview of the major types of pacing leads and their functions.



Temporary Pacing Leads



Temporary pacing Cardiac
Pacing Leads are thin wires inserted through a vein, usually in the
neck, groin or arm, and guided into the heart. They have a single electrode at
the tip for pacing one chamber of the heart. Temporary leads are used during
testing in the electrophysiology laboratory or for short-term pacing support in
hospital. They remain in place for days to weeks until the patient's heart function
recovers or a permanent pacemaker is implanted. Being non-distractible,
temporary leads provide a lower risk alternative than implantation of a
permanent system when short term pacing is required.



Permanent Pacemaker Leads



Permanent pacemaker leads are designed for long-term use, typically years. Made
of flexible but durable insulated materials, they must withstand millions of
flexing movements as the heart beats. Most permanent leads enter the heart
through a vein in the neck, chest or arm and are secured at their exit point to
prevent lead dislodgement or damage. Like temporary leads, some have a single
electrode at the tip but many dual-chamber pacemakers use leads with additional
electrodes mid-way or near the tip.

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