Advanced
Technical
IVT
post-shock pacing
Temporary high-output pacing delivered immediately after defibrillation to ensure adequate heart rhythm until normal function resumes.
Full Definition
A protective pacing feature in ICDs and CRT-D devices that delivers high-output pacing pulses immediately following defibrillation therapy. Post-shock pacing compensates for temporary myocardial stunning or conduction abnormalities that may occur after high-voltage shock delivery. This pacing is typically programmed at higher outputs than normal pacing to ensure capture during the period when pacing thresholds may be elevated due to shock-related tissue effects.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate; refers specifically to the period immediately after defibrillation.
In Context
- "Post-shock pacing parameters were programmed at twice the chronic threshold." — Device programming report
- "The post-shock pacing duration should be sufficient to allow myocardial recovery." — Clinical guideline
Also known as
post-defibrillation pacing
Don't confuse with
backup pacing
safety pacing