Benefit of rate response with closed-loop stimulation in patients with difficult hemodialysis

Abstract

Rate-responsive pacing is known to improve quality of life (QOL) in patients with sick sinus syndrome and chronotropic incompetence. However, the sensors for rate response include accelerometers, closed-loop stimulation (CLS), and minute ventilation sensors (MV sensors), each of which has a different mode of action. For this reason, it is important to select appropriate sensors that match the daily habits and behavioral patterns of the patient. For example, young and active patients are expected to have a rate increase when an accelerome-ter is used, while elderly patients and patients with a physical disability who are only able to move slowly often have a poor response to the accelerometer. MV sensors are therefore better suited to these patients. Further-more, CLS is considered effective for patients who require an increase in heart rate when at rest, for example, patients undergoing maintenance dialysis. We describe a representative case, demonstrating the effectiveness of closed-loop stimulation in a patient with hypotension during dialysis.