Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Runaway pacemaker syndrome
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Runaway pacemaker syndrome is a potentially life-threatening malfunction of older pacemaker technologies whereby the pacemaker intermittently fires at a rate of nearly 2000 bpm.
Causes
Causes
The malfunction is often related to a low battery voltage.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Physical Examination
Vital Signs
- Generally the low amplitude pacemaker spikes fail to capture and there is bradycardia.
Complications, Natural History and Prognosis
Complications, Natural History and Prognosis
- Generally the low amplitude pacemaker spikes fail to capture and there is bradycardia.
- Ventricular fibrillation can occur
Treatment
Treatment
- A magnet should be placed on the chest to stop the potentially life-threatening stimulation.
- The pacemaker should be replaced.
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]