programmed stimulation
A technique using precisely timed electrical impulses delivered through catheters to induce or terminate arrhythmias during EP studies.
Full Definition
Programmed stimulation is a fundamental technique in clinical electrophysiology involving the delivery of carefully timed electrical impulses through intracardiac catheters to assess cardiac electrical properties and arrhythmia susceptibility. The protocol typically includes baseline pacing at various cycle lengths followed by the introduction of premature stimuli at progressively shorter coupling intervals. This technique can induce sustained arrhythmias for diagnostic purposes, assess antiarrhythmic drug efficacy, or determine the mechanism of spontaneous arrhythmias. Programmed stimulation protocols are standardized but may be modified based on clinical indication, with different approaches for atrial versus ventricular stimulation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify stimulation site, protocol details, and inducibility results in documentation.
In Context
- "Programmed stimulation from the right ventricular apex induced sustained monomorphic VT." — EP study report
- "The arrhythmia was not inducible with aggressive programmed stimulation protocols." — Procedure summary