Temporary Postoperative Epicardial Pacing Electrodes: Their Value and Management After Open-Heart Surgery

Abstract

ince 1964, temporary epicardial pacemaking electrodes have been placed routinely at the time of operation in most patients underS going open-heart surgery at this institution and at St. Vincent Hospital. This practice was initiated as a precaution against postoperative heart block in isolated cases involving repair of tetralogy of Fallot or correction of ventricular septa1 defects. As our experience grew, however, we came to realize the frequent value of these electrodes in establishing a stable cardiac rhythm during the postoperative period. Friesen et al. [l] subsequently showed the value of atrial pacing in increasing postoperative cardiac output. Consequently, for the past two years most patients except those with long-standing atrial fibrillation have had both atrial and ventricular pacing wires placed prior to closure of the chest. The purpose of this paper is to describe our method of placement and the subsequent management of these temporary pacing wires.