rate response
A pacemaker feature that automatically adjusts heart rate based on physiologic demand sensors during physical activity.
Full Definition
Rate response functionality enables pacemakers to increase heart rate appropriately during exercise or stress when the patient's intrinsic chronotropic response is inadequate. The system utilizes various sensors including accelerometers, minute ventilation sensors, or temperature sensors to detect increased metabolic demand and adjust pacing rate accordingly. This feature is particularly important for patients with chronotropic incompetence who cannot achieve adequate heart rate increases with activity. Programming parameters include sensor sensitivity, rate response slope, and maximum tracking rate to optimize the physiologic response while preventing inappropriate rate increases.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; distinguish from intrinsic chronotropic response.
In Context
- "Rate response programming was optimized to achieve target heart rates during treadmill testing." — Pacemaker optimization report
- "The patient's exercise tolerance improved significantly after enabling rate response functionality." — Cardiology follow-up note