sensing threshold
Minimum signal amplitude required for the device to detect intrinsic cardiac electrical activity, measured during device programming.
Full Definition
Sensing threshold represents the minimum amplitude of intrinsic cardiac electrical signals that a pacemaker or ICD can reliably detect and respond to appropriately. This parameter is crucial for device programming as it determines the device's sensitivity to the patient's own heart rhythm. Medical editors working with electrophysiology documentation must understand that sensing thresholds are measured in millivolts and vary between atrial and ventricular chambers, with programming typically set at a safety margin below the measured threshold to ensure reliable sensing while avoiding oversensing of non-cardiac signals.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify units (mV); distinguish from capture threshold which measures different parameter; include safety margin information.
In Context
- "The atrial sensing threshold was measured at 2.5 mV with programming set to 1.25 mV for a 2:1 safety margin." — Device interrogation report
- "Deteriorating sensing thresholds may indicate lead maturation issues or insulation problems." — Device follow-up documentation