rate smoothing
Pacemaker algorithm designed to prevent sudden rate changes by gradually transitioning between different heart rates.
Full Definition
Rate smoothing is a programmable pacemaker feature designed to prevent abrupt changes in heart rate by gradually transitioning between different pacing rates or from sensed to paced rhythms. This algorithm is particularly useful in patients who experience symptoms from sudden rate drops, such as those with chronotropic incompetence or rate-dependent symptoms. When enabled, rate smoothing calculates a target rate based on recent cardiac activity and gradually increases or decreases the pacing rate toward this target over several cardiac cycles, rather than allowing immediate rate changes. The feature can be programmed with specific parameters including maximum rate change per cycle and the time constant for rate transitions. Rate smoothing is especially beneficial for patients with neurocardiogenic syncope or those who are sensitive to rate fluctuations.
Usage
Usage note: Specific to device programming contexts; parameters should be specified when documented.
In Context
- "Rate smoothing was programmed ON to prevent symptomatic bradycardia episodes in this vasovagal syncope patient." — Device interrogation report
- "The patient's symptoms resolved after enabling rate smoothing with a 6% maximum rate change per cycle." — Pacemaker follow-up note