epicardial pacing wires
Temporary pacing electrodes placed directly on the heart surface during cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
Epicardial pacing wires are temporary electrodes sutured directly to the epicardial surface of the heart during cardiac surgery to provide external cardiac pacing capability in the postoperative period. Typically, both atrial and ventricular wires are placed to allow for atrial, ventricular, or atrioventricular sequential pacing as needed. These wires enable treatment of bradycardia, heart block, or optimization of cardiac output through pacing in the immediate postoperative period. The wires are externalized through the chest wall and can be connected to an external pacemaker generator.
Usage
Usage note: Usually specified as atrial or ventricular wires; typically placed in pairs.
In Context
- "Epicardial pacing wires were placed on both the right atrium and right ventricle." — operative report
- "The patient required ventricular pacing via the epicardial pacing wires for bradycardia." — postoperative note