Intermediate
Technical
IVT
R-wave sensing
A pacemaker's ability to detect the natural electrical activity of the ventricles during heartbeats.
Full Definition
R-wave sensing refers to the capability of a cardiac pacemaker to detect the R-wave component of the QRS complex, which represents ventricular depolarization. This sensing function is critical for proper device timing and prevents unnecessary pacing when the heart's natural rhythm is adequate. Proper R-wave sensing ensures the device operates in a demand mode rather than fixed-rate mode.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as a compound modifier.
In Context
- "The device showed appropriate R-wave sensing with amplitudes consistently above 5 mV." — Clinical follow-up report
- "Programming adjustments were made to optimize R-wave sensing in the patient with low-amplitude signals." — Device programming note
Also known as
ventricular sensing
QRS sensing
Contrasted with
R-wave oversensing
undersensing
Don't confuse with
P-wave sensing
T-wave oversensing