epicardial pacing wires
Temporary pacing electrodes placed directly on the heart's surface during cardiac surgery to provide postoperative rhythm support.
Full Definition
Temporary pacing wires placed directly onto the epicardial surface of the heart during cardiac surgery, typically before chest closure. These wires are usually placed on both the right atrium and right ventricle to allow for dual-chamber pacing if needed in the postoperative period. Epicardial pacing wires serve as a backup pacing system for patients who may develop bradycardia, heart block, or other conduction disturbances following cardiac surgery. The wires are externalized through the chest wall and connected to an external pacemaker generator. They are typically removed within 3-5 days postoperatively by gentle traction once the patient's intrinsic rhythm has stabilized and the risk of conduction abnormalities has decreased.
Usage
Usage note: Specify placement location (atrial/ventricular) in operative notes for clarity.
In Context
- "Epicardial pacing wires were placed on the right atrium and right ventricle before chest closure." — operative report
- "The patient's epicardial pacing wires were removed on postoperative day 3 without complication." — discharge summary