2018 Bradycardia/Conduction (ACC/AHA/HRS)

Kusumoto FM, et al. 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS Guideline on the Evaluation and Management of Patients With Bradycardia and Cardiac Conduction Delay. Circulation 2019;140:e382–e482.

2018 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline on the evaluation and management of patients with bradycardia and cardiac conduction delay

A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society

Writing Committee Members*

Fred M. Kusumoto, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS (Chair),

Mark H. Schoenfeld, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS (Vice Chair), Coletta Barrett, RN, FAHA,[†] James R. Edgerton, MD, FACC, FHRS,[‡] Kenneth A. Ellenbogen, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS,[†] Michael R. Gold, MD, PhD, FACC,[x] Nora F. Goldschlager, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS,[†] Robert M. Hamilton, MD,[k] José A. Joglar, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS,[{] Robert J. Kim, MD,[†] Richard Lee, MD, MBA,[#] Joseph E. Marine, MD, MBA, FACC, FHRS,[x] Christopher J. McLeod, MB, ChB, PhD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS,[†] Keith R. Oken, MD, FACC,[†] Kristen K. Patton, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS,[†] Cara N. Pellegrini, MD, FHRS,*[x] ** Kimberly A. Selzman, MD, MPH, FACC, FHRS,[†] Annemarie Thompson, MD,[†] Paul D. Varosy, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS[††]

ACC/AHA Task Force Members

Glenn N. Levine, MD, FACC, FAHA, Chair Joshua A. Beckman, MD, MS, FAHA Patrick T. O’Gara, MD, MACC, FAHA, Chair-Elect Kim K. Birtcher, PharmD, MS, AACC JonathanL.Halperin,MD,FACC,FAHA, ImmediatePastChair[‡‡] Biykem Bozkurt, MD, PhD, FACC, FAHA[‡‡] Sana M. Al-Khatib, MD, MHS, FACC, FAHA Ralph G. Brindis, MD, MPH, MACC[‡‡]

*Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information.[†] ACC/AHA Representative.[‡] STS Representative.[x] HRS Representative.[k] PACES Representative.[{] ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison.[#] AATS Representative.**Dr. Pellegrini contributed to this article in her personal capacity. The views expressed are her own and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. government.[††] ACC/AHA Performance Measures Representative.

KEYWORDS ACC/AHA Clinical Practice Guidelines; Ablation; Ambulatory electrocardiography; Aminophylline; Atrioventricular block; Atropine; AV block; Beta-adrenergic agonist; Bradyarrhythmia; Bradycardia; Bundle branch block; Cardiac pacing; Cardiac resynchronization therapy; Cardiac sinus pause; Cardiac surgery; Congenital heart disease; Digoxin antibodies Fab fragments; Electrocardiogram; Glucagon; Heart block; Holter monitoring; Intraoperative; Isoproterenol; Lamin A-C; Left bundle branch block; Muscular dystrophies; Myocardial infarction; Myotonic dystrophy; Pacemaker; Pacing; Preoperative; Quality of life; Right bundle branch block; Sarcoidosis; Shared decision-making; Sick sinus syndrome; Sinus arrest; Sinus bradycardia syndrome; Sinus node dysfunction; Spinal cord injuries; Syncope; Theophylline; Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (Heart Rhythm 2019;16:e128–e226)

Developed in Collaboration With the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, the Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society, and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Endorsed by the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, the Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society, and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. This document was approved by the American College of Cardiology Clinical Policy Approval Committee, the American Heart Association Science Advisory and Coordinating Committee,

and the American Heart Association Executive Committee in October 2018, and the Heart Rhythm Society in August 2018. The Heart Rhythm Society requests that this document be cited as follows: Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Barrett CN, Edgerton JR, Ellenbogen KA, Gold MR, Goldschlager NF, Hamilton RM, Joglar JA, Kim RJ, Lee R, Marine JE, McLeod CJ, Oken KR, Patton KK, Pellegrini CN, Selzman KA, Thompson A, Varosy PD. 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline on the evaluation and management of patients with bradycardia and cardiac conduction delay: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. Heart Rhythm 2019;16:e128–e226. This article has been copublished in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology and Circulation. Copies: This document is available on the websites of the American College of Cardiology (www.acc.org), the American Heart Association (https://professional.heart.org/), and the Heart Rhythm Society (www.hrsonline.org). For copies of this document, please contact the Elsevier Inc. Reprint Department via fax (212-633-3820) or e-mail (reprints@ elsevier.com). Permissions: Multiple copies, modification, alteration, enhancement, and/or distribution of this document are not permitted without the express permission of the Heart Rhythm Society. Requests may be completed online via the Elsevier site (https://www.elsevier.com/about/ourbusiness/policies/copyright/permissions).

1547-5271/$-see front matter © 2019 American College of Cardiology Foundation, the American Heart Association, Inc., and the Heart Rhythm Society.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrthm.2018.10.037

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e129

Joaquin E. Cigarroa, MD, FACC Lesley H. Curtis, PhD, FAHA[‡‡] Anita Deswal, MD, MPH, FACC, FAHA Lee A. Fleisher, MD, FACC, FAHA Federico Gentile, MD, FACC Samuel Gidding, MD, FAHA[‡‡] Zachary D. Goldberger, MD, MSc, FACC, FAHA Mark A. Hlatky, MD, FACC, FAHA

John Ikonomidis, MD, PhD, FAHA[‡‡] José A. Joglar, MD, FACC, FAHA Laura Mauri, MD, MSc, FAHA[‡‡] Mariann R. Piano, RN, PhD, FAHA Susan J. Pressler, PhD, RN, FAHA[‡‡] Barbara Riegel, PhD, RN, FAHA[‡‡] Duminda N. Wijeysundera, MD, PhD

‡‡ Former Task Force member; current member during the writing effort.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e130

  • 5.4.3. Additional Testing of Bradycardia Attributable to SND e160

  • 5.4.4. Permanent Pacing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND... e161

    1. Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block e164 6.1. Pathophysiology, Etiology, and Classification of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block e164
  • 6.3.2. Acute Medical Therapy for Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block e167

  • 6.3.3. Temporary Pacing for Atrioventricular Block e168

  • 6.4. Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block e169 6.4.1. General Principles of Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block e171

  • 6.4.2. Transient/Potentially Reversible Causes of Atrioventricular Block... e172

  • 6.4.3. Additional Testing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block e173

  • 6.4.4. Permanent Pacing e174

  • 8.1.2. Postoperative Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders After Cardiac Surgery e184

  • 8.2. Bradycardia Management for Adult Congenital Heart Disease e191

  • 8.3. Management of Bradycardia in Patients With an Acute MI e193

  • 8.4. Neurologic Disorders e194 8.4.1. Epilepsy e194

  1. Conduction Disorders (With 1:1

Top 10 Take-Home Messages For the Management of Bradycardia and Cardiac Conduction Delay

  1. Sinus node dysfunction is most often related to agedependent progressive fibrosis of the sinus nodal tissue and surrounding atrial myocardium leading to abnormalities of sinus node and atrial impulse formation and propagation and will therefore result in various bradycardic or pause-related syndromes.

  2. Both sleep disorders of breathing and nocturnal bradycardias are relatively common, and treatment of sleep apnea not only reduces the frequency of these arrhythmias but also may offer cardiovascular benefits. The presence of nocturnal bradycardias should prompt consideration for screening for sleep apnea, beginning with solicitation of suspicious symptoms. However, nocturnal bradycardia is not in itself an indication for permanent pacing.

  3. The presence of left bundle branch block on electrocardiogram markedly increases the likelihood of underlying structural heart disease and of diagnosing left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Echocardiography is usually the most appropriate initial screening test for structural heart disease, including left ventricular systolic dysfunction.

  4. In sinus node dysfunction, there is no established minimum heart rate or pause duration where permanent pacing is recommended. Establishing temporal correlation between symptoms and bradycardia is important when determining whether permanent pacing is needed.

  5. In patients with acquired second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, high-grade atrioventricular block, or thirddegree atrioventricular block not caused by reversible or physiologic causes, permanent pacing is recommended regardlessofsymptoms.Forallothertypesofatrioventricular block, in the absence of conditions associated with progressive atrioventricular conduction abnormalities, permanent pacing should generally be considered only in the presence of symptoms that correlate with atrioventricular block.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e131

  1. In patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction between 36% to 50% and atrioventricular block, who have an indication for permanent pacing and are expected to require ventricular pacing.40% of the time, techniques that provide more physiologic ventricular activation (e.g., cardiac resynchronization therapy, His bundle pacing) are preferredtoright ventricular pacingtoprevent heartfailure.

  2. Because conduction system abnormalities are common after transcatheter aortic valve replacement, recommendations on postprocedure surveillance and pacemaker implantation are made in this guideline.

  3. Inpatients with bradycardiawho haveindicationsforpacemaker implantation, shared decision-making and patientcentered care are endorsed and emphasized in this guideline.Treatmentdecisionsarebasedonthebestavailableevidence and on the patient’s goals of care and preferences.

  4. Using the principles of shared decision-making and informed consent/refusal, patients with decisionmaking capacity or his/her legally defined surrogate has the right to refuse or request withdrawal of pacemaker therapy, even if the patient is pacemaker dependent, which should be considered palliative, end-of-life care, and not physician-assisted suicide. However, any decision is complex, should involve all stakeholders, and will always be patient specific.

  5. Identifying patient populations that will benefit the most from emerging pacing technologies (e.g., His bundle pacing, transcatheter leadless pacing systems) will require further investigation as these modalities are incorporated into clinical practice.

Preamble

Since 1980, the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) have translated scientific evidence into clinical practice guidelines with recommendations to improve cardiovascular health. These guidelines, which are based on systematic methods to evaluate and classify evidence, provide a foundation for the delivery of quality cardiovascular care. The ACC and AHA sponsor the development and publication of clinical practice guidelines without commercial support, and members volunteer their time to the writing and review efforts.

Clinicalpractice guidelines providerecommendations applicabletopatientswithor at riskof developingcardiovascular disease. The focus is on medical practice in the United States, but these guidelines are relevant to patients throughout the world. Although guidelines may be used to inform regulatory or payer decisions, the intent is to improve quality of care and align with patients’ interests. Guidelines are intended to define practices meeting the needs of patients in most, but not all, circumstances, and should not replace clinical judgment.

Recommendations for guideline-directed management and therapy, which encompasses clinical evaluation, diagnostic testing, and both pharmacological and procedural treatments, are effective only when followed by both practitioners and patients. Adherence to recommendations can be

enhanced by shared decision-making between clinicians and patients, with patient engagement in selecting interventions on the basis of individual values, preferences, and associated conditions and comorbidities.

The ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines strives to ensure that the guideline writing committee both contains requisite expertise and is representative of the broader medical community by selecting experts from a broad array of backgrounds representing different geographic regions, sexes, races, ethnicities, intellectual perspectives/ biases, and scopes of clinical practice, and by inviting organizations and professional societies with related interests and expertise to participate as partners or collaborators. The ACC and AHA have rigorous policies and methods to ensure that documents are developed without bias or improper influence. The complete policy on relationships with industry and other entities (RWI) can be found online.

Beginning in 2017, numerous modifications to the guidelines have been and continue to be implemented to make guidelines shorter and enhance “user friendliness.” Guidelines are written and presented in a modular knowledge chunk format, in which each chunk includes a table of recommendations, a brief synopsis, recommendation-specific supportive text and, when appropriate, flow diagrams or additional tables. Hyperlinked references are provided for each modular knowledge chunk to facilitate quick access and review. More struc— “ ” tured guidelines including word limits ( targets) and a web guideline supplement for useful but noncritical tables and figures—are 2 such changes. This Preamble is an abbreviated version, with the detailed version available online.

Glenn N. Levine, MD, FACC, FAHA Chair, ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines

1. Introduction

1.1. Methodology and Evidence Review

The recommendations listed in this guideline are, whenever possible, evidence based. An initial extensive evidence review, which included literature derived from research involving human subjects, published in English, and indexed in MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline, was conducted from January 2017 to September 2017. Key search words included but were not limited to the following: AV block, bradycardia, bundle branch block, conduction disturbance, left bundle branch block, loop recorder, pauses, permanent pacemaker, sick sinus syndrome, sinus node dysfunction, and temporary pacemaker. Additional relevant studies, published through January 2018 during the guideline writing process, were also considered by the writing committee and added to the evidence tables when appropriate. The final evidence tables are included in the Online Data Supplement and summarize the evidence used by the writing committee to formulate recommendations. References selected and published in the present document are representative and not all-inclusive.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e132

As noted in the detailed version of the Preamble, an independent evidence review committee was commissioned to perform a formal systematic review of 1 critical clinical question related to bradycardia, the results of which were considered by the writing committee for incorporation into this guideline. Concurrent with this process, writing committee members evaluated study data relevant to the rest of the guideline. The findings of the evidence review committee and the writing committee members were formally presented and discussed, and then recommendations were developed. The systematic review, titled “Impact of Physiologic Versus Right Ventricular Pacing Among Patients With Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Greater Than 35%: A Systematic Review for the 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS Guideline on the Evaluation and Management of Patients With Bradycardia and Cardiac Conduction Delay,” is published in conjunction with this guideline[S1.1-1] and its respective data supplements are available online. The evidence review committee report informed recommendations in Section 6.4.4.1.

1.2. Organization of the Writing Committee

The writing committee consisted of cardiac electrophysiologists, clinicians, cardiologists, surgeons, an anesthesiologist, and a lay/patient representative. The writing committee included representatives from the ACC, AHA, Heart Rhythm Society (HRS), American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS), Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society (PACES), and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS). Appendix 1 of the present document lists writing committee members’ relevant RWI. For the purposes of full transparency, the writing committee members’ comprehensive disclosure information is available online).

1.3. Document Review and Approval

This document was reviewed by 2 official reviewers each nominated by the ACC, AHA, and HRS; 1 official lay reviewer nominated by the AHA; 1 organizational reviewer each from the AATS, PACES, and STS; and 31 individual content reviewers. Reviewers’ RWI information was distributed to the writing committee and is published as an abbreviated table in this document (Appendix 2). The reviewers’ detailed RWI information is available online.

This document was approved for publication by the governing bodies of the ACC, the AHA, and the HRS; and was endorsed by the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, the Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society, and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

1.4. Scope of the Guideline

The purpose of this ACC/AHA/HRS guideline is to provide guidance to clinicians for the management of patients

with bradycardia, or symptoms thought to be associated with bradycardia or cardiac conduction system disorders. This guideline supersedes the pacemaker recommendations made in the “ACC/AHA/HRS 2008 Guidelines for Device-Based Therapy of Cardiac Rhythm Abnormalities”[S1.4-1,S1.4-2] and “2012 ACCF/AHA/HRS Focused Update Incorporated Into the ACCF/AHA/HRS 2008 Guidelines for Device-Based Therapy of Cardiac Rhythm Abnormalities.”[S1.4-2] The guideline will be useful to general internists, family physicians, emergency physicians, anesthesiologists, surgeons, cardiologists, and arrhythmia specialists. This document is aimed at the adult population (.18 years of age) and offers no specific recommendations in pediatric patients, although some of the evidence review included pediatric patients. Although background on the pathophysiology and epidemiology of bradycardia and cardiac conduction disorders is summarized, this guideline is not intended to be an exhaustive review. Rather, it focuses on practical clinical evaluation and management. Specific objectives and goals include:

  • Describe the clinical significance of bradycardia with respect to mortality, symptoms (e.g., syncope, impaired functional capacity), and exacerbations of associated disorders (e.g., ischemia, heart failure, provoked tachyarrhythmias).

  • Address inherited and acquired disorders of the sinus node, atrioventricular node, His-Purkinje fibers, and intramyocardial conducting tissue, including the effects of medications, aging, metabolic derangements, trauma, radiation, infiltrative, ischemic, and inflammatory disorders, infectious and toxic agents, and iatrogenic factors.

  • Delineate the clinical presentation and general approach to clinical evaluation of patients with overt or suspected bradycardias or conduction diseases.

  • Comprehensively evaluate the evidence supporting recommendations for the selection and timing of available diagnostic testing modalities, including monitoring devices and electrophysiologic testing.

  • Define the evidence base supporting recommendations for the use of available treatment modalities, including lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and external and implanted device-based therapies, with particular attention to indications for temporary and permanent pacing.

  • Address special considerations that may be applicable to distinct populations based on age (.18 years of age), comorbidities or other relevant factors.

  • Identify knowledge gaps, pertinent trials in progress and directions for future research.

Table 1 lists other guidelines and pertinent documents that the writing committee considered for this guideline. The listed documents contain relevant information for the

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e133

management of patients with bradycardia or cardiac conduction system disorder.

1.5. Class of Recommendation and Level of Evidence

Recommendations are designated with both a class of recommendation (COR) and a level of evidence (LOE). The class of recommendation indicates the strength of recommendation, encompassing the estimated magnitude and certainty of benefit in proportion to risk. The level of evidence rates the quality of scientific evidence supporting the intervention on the basis of the type, quantity, and consistency of data from clinical trials and other sources (Table 2).[S1.5-1]

1.6. Abbreviations

AbbreviationMeaning/Phrase
ACHDadult congenital heart disease
AFatrialfbrillation
CIEDcardiovascular implantable electronic
devices
CRTcardiac resynchronization therapy
HVHis-ventricular
ICDimplantable cardioverter defbrillator
ICMimplantable cardiac monitor
ECGelectrocardiogram
EPSelectrophysiology study
LBBBleft bundle branch block
LVEFleft ventricular ejection fraction
MImyocardial infarction
MRImagnetic resonance imaging
PPMpermanent pacemaker
QOLquality of life
RBBBright bundle branch block
RCTrandomized controlled trial
RVright ventricle
SACTsinoatrial conduction time
SNDsinus node dysfunction
SNRTsinus node recovery time
TAVRtranscatheter aortic valve replacement

2. Epidemiology and Definitions

2.1. Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders

Because slower heart rates and changes in intercellular conduction can be observed as both part of normal aging and disease progression, bradycardia and conduction abnormalities are more commonly identified in the elderly. Abnormalities of the sinus node, atrial tissue, atrioventricular nodal tissue, and the specialized conduction system can all contribute to bradycardia, discordant timing of atrial and ventricular depolarization, and abnormal ventricular depolarization.

Sinus node dysfunction (SND), historically referred to as sick sinus syndrome, is most often related to age-dependent, progressive, degenerative fibrosis of the sinus nodal tissue and surrounding atrial myocardium.[S2.1-1][—][S2.1-3] This can result in abnormalities of sinus node and atrial impulse formation and propagation and can be associated with

various bradycardia or pause-related syndromes. In addition, the same milieu of degenerative fibrosis is also responsible for the development of atrial arrhythmias, which can coexist with sinus node disease and the combination often called “tachy-brady syndrome.” There is evidence that heart block occurs in a portion of patients who have required permanent atrial pacing for SND, suggesting that, in some patients, a similar fibrotic process likely involves the specialized atrioventricular conduction system.[S2.1-3,S2.1-4] Data gathered from permanent pacemaker (PPM) studies and the large cohort studies of ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities) and CHS (Cardiovascular Health Study) suggest that SND is most common in individuals who are in their 70s or 80s.[S2.1-5][—][S2.1-7] SND appears to mirror the incidence of pacemaker implantation for atrioventricular nodal disease because both are age related.[S2.1-7] In these analyses, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and atrial fibrillation (AF) were found to be common concurrent issues in this subgroup of patients who require treatment for their atrioventricular nodal disease.[S2.1-5][—][S2.1-7] The intrinsic sinus and atrioventricular nodal diseases present in a similar clinical manner to extrinsic/secondary processes that can injure the sinus node, atrioventricular node or conduction system tissues. Multiple pathophysiologic processes (e.g., myocardial ischemia or infarction, infiltrative diseases, collagen vascular disease, surgical trauma, endocrine abnormalities, autonomic effects, neuromuscular disorders,[S2.1-2,S2.1-8][—][S2.1-10] individually or in combination, can compromise impulse initiation and propagation. Whether intrinsic or extrinsic, the clinical manifestations of these pathologies can be identical.

2.2. De nitions

The National Institutes of Health defines bradycardia as a heart rate,60 bpm in adults other than well trained athletes.[S2.2-1] However, population studies frequently use a lower cutoff of 50 bpm.[S2.2-2,S2.2-3] In an analysis of 4 population studies from the Netherlands, in adults from 20 to 90 years of age, the lowest second percentile for heart rate ranged from 40 to 55 bpm depending on sex and age.[S2.2-3] Sinus pauses of 2 seconds and 3 seconds have been described during 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring in healthy elderly patients and longdistance runners, respectively.[S2.2-4,S2.2-5] On the basis of the available evidence, for the purposes of this document, we have chosen a sinus rate,50 bpm and/or a sinus pause.3 seconds as potential components of the definitions of SND. However, the presence of sinus bradycardia or a pause.3 seconds alone should not be used for the diagnosis of SND; multiple factors should be recognized and be taken into consideration for the individual patient (Table 3). With rare exceptions, the sole reason for considering any treatment for SND is the presence of symptoms.

Chronotropic incompetence represents failure to reach a target heart rate with exertion relative to expected for age that is inadequate to meet metabolic demand. Because the

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e134

Table 1 Associated Guidelines and Related References

Table 1 Associated Guidelines and Related References
Publication Year
TitleOrganization(Reference)
Guidelines
Ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death Syncope Stable ischemic heart diseaseACC/AHA/HRS ACC/AHA/HRS ACC/AHA/AATS/ PCNA/SCAI/STS2017S1.4-3 2017S1.4-4 2014*S1.4-5 2012S1.4-6
Atrialfbrillation Perioperative cardiovascular evaluation and management of patients undergoing noncardiacAHA/ACC/HRS ACC/AHA2014S1.4-7 2014S1.4-8
surgery Non–ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes Heart failure ST-elevation myocardial infarction Device-based therapy for cardiac rhythm abnormalities Coronary artery bypass graft surgery Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy Percutaneous coronary intervention Guidelines for CPR and emergency cardiovascular care—part 9: post-cardiac arrest careAHA/ACC ACC/AHA ACC/AHA ACC/AHA/HRS ACC/AHA ACC/AHA ACC/AHA/SCAI AHA2014S1.4-9 2013S1.4-10 2013S1.4-11 2013S1.4-2 2011S1.4-12 2011S1.4-13 2011S1.4-14 2010S1.4-15
Other related references
Expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead managementHRS2017S1.4-16
and extraction
Management of cardiac involvement associated with neuromuscular diseases Expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging Eligibility and disqualifcation recommendations for competitive athletes with cardiovascularAHA HRS ACC/AHA2017S1.4-17 2017S1.4-18 2015S1.4-19
abnormalities: Task Force 9: arrhythmias and conduction defects Expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of postural tachycardia syndrome,HRS2015S1.4-20
inappropriate sinus tachycardia, and vasovagal syncope Expert consensus statement on the recognition and management of arrhythmias in adultPACES/HRS2014S1.4-21
congenital heart disease Expert consensus statement on the use of implantable cardioverter-defbrillator therapy inHRS/ACC/AHA2014S1.4-22
patients who are not included or not well represented in clinical trials Expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and management of arrhythmias associated withHRS2014S1.4-23
cardiac sarcoidosis
Cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy Expert consensus statement on pacemaker device and mode selection Expert consensus statement on the state of genetic testing for the channelopathies andESC HRS/ACCF HRS/EHRA2013S1.4-24 2012S1.4-25 2011S1.4-26
cardiomyopathies Expert consensus statement on the management of cardiovascular implantable electronicHRS2010S1.4-27
devices (CIEDs) in patients nearing end of life or requesting withdrawal of therapy Recommendations for the standardization and interpretation of the electrocardiogram: partAHA/ACCF/HRS2009S1.4-28
III: intraventricular conduction disturbances: a scientifc statement
Recommendations for the standardization and interpretation of the electrocardiogram: part V:AHA/ACCF/HRS2009S1.4-29
electrocardiogram changes associated with cardiac chamber hypertrophy: a scientifc
statement

AATS 5 American Association for Thoracic Surgery; ACC 5 American College of Cardiology; ACCF 5 American College of Cardiology Foundation; AHA 5 American Heart Association; CPR 5 cardiopulmonary resuscitation; EHRA 5 European Heart Rhythm Association; ESC 5 European Society of Cardiology; HRS 5 Heart Rhythm Society; PACES 5 Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society; PCNA 5 Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association; SCAI 5 Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions; STS 5 Society of Thoracic Surgeons. *Focused Update.

incremental heart rate achieved with exercise will be dependent on resting heart rate, the most commonly used definition in the literature has been failure to reach 80% of the expected heart rate reserve. Expected heart rate reserve is defined as the difference between the age-predicted maximal heart rate (220 – age) and the resting heart rate. Percentage of expected heart rate reserve is the ratio of demonstrated and predicted heart rate reserve. Although this definition has been used in literature, in practice, specifically defining chronotropic incompetence is difficult.[S2.2-8][—][S2.2-11] Other investigators suggest that another age-related equation (220 2 0.7 ! age) is a better predictor for heart rate, while others stress the importance

of sex and the presence of comorbidities.[S2.2-8][—][S2.2-10] Collectively, the data suggest that the diagnosis of chronotropic incompetence in a patient requires careful individualized clinical assessment and probably cannot be determined by age alone. The definitions for atrioventricular block and conduction tissue disorders have been adopted from the 2009 AHA/ACCF/HRS recommendations for the standardization of electrocardiographic measurements (both intraventricular conduction disorders and chamber hypertrophy),[S2.2-7,S2.2-12] although some have argued that stricter criteria are required for left bundle branch block (LBBB).[S2.2-13]

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e135

Table 2 Applying Class of Recommendation and Level of Evidence to Clinical Strategies, Interventions, Treatments, or Diagnostic Testing in Patient Care* (Updated August 2015)

3. Clinical Manifestation of Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders

3.1. Clinical Manifestations of Bradycardia

Theclinical manifestations of bradycardiacan varywidely from insidious symptoms to episodes of frank syncope. Bradycardia can be broadly classified into 2 general categories: SND and atrioventricularblock.Theassociatedwiderangeofclinicalpresentations can be explained by the disparate electrophysiologic manifestations, ventricular rates, transience of these abnormalities, overall medical conditions, and medications.

The electrocardiographic findings in patients with SND are varied and the diagnosis may be considered in patients with sinus bradycardia or atrial depolarization from a subsidiary pacemaker other than the sinus node (i.e., ectopic atrial rhythm, junctional rhythm, or ventricular escape),

intermittent sinus pauses, or a blunted heart rate response with exercise (chronotropic incompetence).[S3.1-1] The clinical manifestations of atrioventricular block will also depend on whether the atrioventricular block is fixed or intermittent and the ventricular rate or duration of ventricular asystole associated with atrioventricular block. In addition, symptoms will vary depending on underlying cause and timing. For example, patients with vagally mediated atrioventricular block can be asymptomatic if the periods of atrioventricular block occur at night while sleeping when parasympathetic tone is increased. Vagally mediated atrioventricular block during sleep can be recognized by the presence of concomitant sinus node slowing (P-P prolongation). Conversely the sudden increase in parasympathetic tone with vasovagal syncope can cause bradycardia (usually sinus node slowing or sinus arrest, but sometimes with atrioventricular block).[S3.1-2]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e136

Table 3 Table of De nitions

Table 3 Table of Defnitions
TermDefnition or Description
Sinus node dysfunction- Sinus bradycardia: Sinus rate,50 bpm
(with accompanying symptoms)- Ectopic atrial bradycardia: Atrial depolarization attributable to an atrial pacemaker other than the
sinus node with a rate,50 bpm
- Sinoatrial exit block: Evidence that blocked conduction between the sinus node and adjacent atrial
tissue is present. Multiple electrocardiographic manifestations including“group beating”of atrial
depolarization and sinus pauses.
- Sinus pause: Sinus node depolarizes.3 s after the last atrial depolarization
- Sinus node arrest: No evidence of sinus node depolarization
- Tachycardia-bradycardia (“tachy-brady”) syndrome: Sinus bradycardia, ectopic atrial bradycardia, or sinus pause alternating with periods of abnormal atrial tachycardia, atrialfutter, or AF.S2.2-6 The
tachycardia may be associated with suppression of sinus node automaticity and a sinus pause of
variable duration when the tachycardia terminates.
- Chronotropic incompetence: Broadly defned as the inability of the heart to increase its rate
commensurate with increased activity or demand, in many studies translates to failure to attain
80% of expected heart rate reserve during exercise.
- Isorhythmic dissociation: Atrial depolarization (from either the sinus node or ectopic atrial site) is
slower than ventricular depolarization (from an atrioventricular nodal, His bundle, or ventricular
Atrioventricular blockS2.2-7site). - First-degree atrioventricular block:P waves associated with 1:1 atrioventricular conduction and a PR
interval.200 ms (this is more accurately defned as atrioventricular delay because no P waves are
blocked)
- Second-degree atrioventricular block:P waves with a constant rate (,100 bpm) where
atrioventricular conduction is present but not 1:1
- Mobitz type I: P waves with a constant rate (,100 bpm) with a periodic single nonconducted P
wave associated with P waves before and after the nonconducted P wave with inconstant PR
intervals
- Mobitz type II: P waves with a constant rate (,100 bpm) with a periodic single nonconducted P
wave associated with other P waves before and after the nonconducted P wave with constant PR
intervals (excluding 2:1 atrioventricular block)
- 2:1 atrioventricular block: P waves with a constant rate (or near constant rate because of
ventriculophasic sinus arrhythmia) rate (,100 bpm) where every other P wave conducts to the
ventricles
- Advanced, high-grade or high-degree atrioventricular block:2 consecutive P waves at a
constant physiologic rate that do not conduct to the ventricles with evidence for some
atrioventricular conduction
- Third-degree atrioventricular block (complete heart block):No evidence of atrioventricular
conduction
- Vagally mediated atrioventricular block:Any type of atrioventricular block mediated by heightened
parasympathetic tone
- Infranodal block:Atrioventricular conduction block where clinical evidence or electrophysiologic
Conduction tissue diseaseS2.2-7evidence suggests that the conduction block occurs distal to the atrioventricular node - RBBB (as defned in adults):
- Complete RBBB:
1. QRS duration120 ms
2. rsr0, rsR0, rSR0, or rarely a qR in leads V1or V2. The R0 or r0 defection is usually wider than the
initial R wave. In a minority of patients, a wide and often notched R wave pattern may be
seen in lead V1and/or V2.
3. S wave of greater duration than R wave or.40 ms in leads I and V6in adults
4. Normal R peak time in leads V5and V6but.50 ms in lead V1
- Incomplete RBBB: Same QRS morphology criteria as complete RBBB but with a QRS duration
between 110 and 119 ms
- LBBB (as defned in adults):
- Complete LBBB:
1. QRS duration120 ms in adults
2. Broad notched or slurred R wave in leads I, aVL, V5, and V6and an occasional RS pattern in V5
and V6attributed to displaced transition of QRS complex
3. Absent Q waves in leads I, V5, and V6, but in the lead aVL, a narrow Q wave may be present in
the absence of myocardial pathology
4. R peak time.60 ms in leads V5and V6but normal in leads V1, V2, and V3, when small initial R
waves can be discerned in the precordial leads
5. ST and T waves usually opposite in direction to QRS
- Incomplete LBBB:
1. QRS duration between 110 and 119 ms in adults
2. Presence of left ventricular hypertrophy pattern

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e137

Table 3 (Continued)

TermDefnition or Description
3. R peak time.60 ms in leads V4, V5, and V6
4. Absence of Q wave in leads I, V5, and V6
- Nonspecifc intraventricular conduction delay (as defned in adults): QRS duration.110 ms where
morphology criteria for RBBB or LBBB are not present
- Left anterior fascicular block:
- QRS duration,120 ms
- Frontal plane axis between245and290
- qR (small r, tall R) pattern in lead aVL
- R-peak time in lead aVL of45 ms
- rS pattern (small r, deep S) in leads II, III, and aVF
- Left posterior fascicular block:
- QRS duration,120 ms
- Frontal plane axis between 90and 180in adults. Because of the more rightward axis in
children up to 16 years of age, this criterion should only be applied to them when a distinct
rightward change in axis is documented.
- rS (small r, deep S) pattern in leads I and aVL
- qR (small q, tall R) pattern in leads III and aVF

AF 5 atrial fibrillation; bpm 5 beats per minute; LBBB 5 left bundle branch block; RBBB 5 right bundle branch block. Maximum predicted heart rate for age calculated as 220 – age (y).

Regardless of whether the bradycardia is caused by SND or atrioventricular block, the term “symptomatic bradycardia” is used throughout this document and has been defined as a “documented bradyarrhythmia that is directly responsible for development of the clinical manifestations of syncope or presyncope, transient dizziness or lightheadedness, heart failure symptoms, or confusional states resulting from cerebral hypoperfusion attributable to slow heart rate.”[S3.1-3] Direct attribution of bradycardia as the sole source of symptoms is challenging. For example, in patients with vasovagal syncope, bradycardia is often accompanied by a significant vasodepressor effect. In addition, nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue can be multifactorial and therefore difficult to correlate with bradycardia particularly in the setting of modest resting sinus bradycardia or with exercise.[S3.1-4]

3.2. Clinical Manifestations of Conduction Disorders

The clinical manifestations of conduction tissue disease primarily will depend on the underlying cause of the conduction

tissue disorder. Patients may often be asymptomatic, particularly in the setting of isolated right bundle branch block (RBBB) or fascicular block. However, patients with LBBB may present with heart failure that may be attributable to cardiac dyssynchrony or because of an underlying cardiomyopathy. The definitions outlined in the “AHA/ACCF/HRS Recommendations for the Standardization and Interpretation of the Electrocardiogram: Part III: Intraventricular Conduction Disturbances”[S3.2-1] are used for this document, although it is acknowledged that these recommendations are not without controversy.[S3.2-1]

4. General Evaluation of Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

4.1. History and Physical Examination of Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendation for History and Physical Examination in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

CORLOERecommendation
IC-EO1. In patients with suspected bradycardia or conduction disorders a comprehensive history and physical
examination should be performed.

Synopsis

The history and physical examination remains the foundation for the medical evaluation of any patient and is particularly helpful for the patient with possible arrhythmias (Figures 1, 2, and 3). The 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation of syncope and the 2017

AHA/ACC/HRS guideline for management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death emphasize the importance of the history and physical examination in the initial evaluation particularly for identifying those patients with structural heart disease.[S4.1-1,S4.1-2]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e138

----- Start of picture text ----- Patient with symptoms suggestive of or consistent with bradycardia or conduction disorder Comprehensive history and physical examination Sleep apnea? (Class I) ECG Directed blood testing (Class I) (Class IIa) Conduction disorder with SND* AV Block 1:1 AV conduction Nondiagnostic SND Diagnostic AV Block Conduction disorder Echocardiography if structural heart algorithm† Diagnostic algorithm‡ Diagnostic algorithm§ disease suspected Exercise-related symptoms Yes No Infrequent Exercise ECG testing Symptoms ICM (Class IIa) (>30 days) (Class IIa) Abnormal Normal Ambulatory ECG monitoring║ (Class I) Significant arrythmias No significant arrhythmias Conduction disorder SND AV Block with 1:1 AV conduction Observation Continued SND Diagnostic AV Block Conduction disorder concern for algorithm† Diagnostic algorithm‡ Diagnostic algorithm§ bradycardia? ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 1 Evaluation of Bradycardia and Conduction Disease Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. See Section 4 for discussion. Dashed lines indicate possible optional strategies based on the specific clinical situation. *Sinus bradycardia, ectopic atrial rhythm, junctional rhythm, sinus pause.[†] Refer to Section 4.3.2., Figure 2.[‡] Refer to Section 4.3.2., Figure 3.[x] Refer to Section 7.4., Figure 8.[k] Monitor choice based on the frequency of symptoms. AV 5 atrioventricular; ECG 5 electrocardiogram/electrocardiographic.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. The history should outline the frequency, timing, duration, severity, longevity, circumstances, triggers and alleviating factors of symptoms suspicious for bradycardia or conduction disorders. The relationship of the symptoms to medications, meals, medical interventions, emotional distress, physical exertion, positional changes, and triggers (e.g., urination, defecation, cough, prolonged standing, shaving, tight collars, and head turning) can help narrow the broad differential diagnosis. Because of the propensity of some commonly prescribed medications (and nutraceuticals) to elicit or exacerbate bradyarrhythmias, a thorough review of both prescription and over-the-counter medications is essential (Table 4 and Table S1 in the Web Supplement). Bradycardia and conduction tissue disorders can be the first manifestation of a systemic illness or heart disease (Table 5). A complete history should include comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment, family history, travel history, and review of systems. Like the medical history, the physical examination should not only focus on manifestations of bradycardia but also signs of underlyingstructural

heart disease and systemic disorders. Care should be taken tocorrelateslow radial pulses with precordial auscultation or carotid pulse assessment as some rhythms (e.g., ventricular or conducted atrial bigeminy) can be misinterpreted as bradycardia if premature beats generate inadequate stroke volume to be palpable peripherally. As disorders of autonomic regulation figure prominently in the differential diagnosis of syncope and near syncope, orthostatic changes in heart rate and blood pressure can be helpful. Carotid sinus massage can be helpful in patients with symptoms suggestive of carotid sinus hypersensitivity syndrome (syncope or near syncope elicited by tight collars, shaving, or turning the head). Carotid sinus massage should be performed in both the supine and upright position in a safe environment with careful blood pressure and electrocardiographic monitoring. Careful carotid auscultation (and/or carotid ultrasound) to exclude an ipsilateral carotid bruit (or significant abnormalities) is mandatory before performing this maneuver as strokes precipitated by carotid sinus massage have been reported.[S4.1-5]

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e139

----- Start of picture text ----- Evidence for sinus node dysfunction* Reversible or physiologic cause Treat underlying cause as needed, e.g., sleep apnea Yes No (Class I) Treatment effective or unnecessary Suspicion for Yes structural heart No disease Observe Yes Transthoracic echocardiography (Class IIa) No Suspicion for infitrative CM, endocarditis, ACHD Yes No Advanced imaging† (Class IIa) Treat identified abnormalities Symptoms No Observe Yes Exercise related Yes No If not already performed: Exercise ECG testing (Class IIa) Diagnostic If not already performed: No Ambulatory ECG monitoring (Class I) Yes Electrophysiology study† (if performed for other reasons) (Class IIb) Sinus node dysfunction treatment algorithm‡ ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 2 Initial Evaluation of Suspected or Documented SND Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. See Section 4 for discussion. *Sinus pauses, sinus bradycardia, junctional rhythm, ectopic atrial rhythm (all with heart rates,50 bpm) while awake.[†] The electrophysiology test should not be done primarily for sinus node dysfunction. If electrophysiology testing is being performed for another reason (e.g., risk stratification for sudden cardiac death), evaluation of sinus node function may be useful to help inform whether an atrial lead for atrial pacing would have potential benefits.[‡] Refer to Section 5.4.4.1., Figure 6. ACHD 5 adult congenital heart disease; CM 5 cardiomyopathy; ECG 5 electrocardiogram/electrocardiographic.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e140

----- Start of picture text ----- Evidence for AV Block Reversible or Physiologic cause Yes No Treat underlying cause as needed, e.g., sleep apnea (Class I) Treatment effective or not necessary Mobitz type II 2° AV Block, No Advanced AV Block, Yes complete heart block Observe Yes No Transthoracic echocardiography Suspicion for (Class I) structural heart disease Suspicion Yes for infiltrative CM, endocarditis, ACHD, etc. Suspicion for infiltrative CM, No Yes endocarditis, ACHD, Advanced No etc. imaging* (Class IIa) Yes No AV block treatment Advanced Transthoracic algorithm† imaging* echocardiography (Class IIa) (Class IIa) Treat identified abnormalities Determine site of AV Unclear AV node‡ Block Infranodal e.g. 2:1 AV Block (Mobitz Type I) Symptoms Symptoms Yes No Exercise testing(Class IIa) Infranodal Yes No Electrophysiology study Infranodal (Class IIb) AV block AV block AV node AV block AV block treatment treatment treatment treatment algorithm† algorithm† Observe algorithm† algorithm† Observe ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 3 Initial Evaluation of Suspected Atrioventricular Block Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. *Targeted Advanced — Imaging Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Amyloidosis, myocarditis, hemochromatosis, sarcoidosis, CHD, sinus of Valsalva aneurysm, aortic dissection, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy; fluoro-deoxy-glucose (fludeoxyglucose)-positron emission tomography (FDG PET): sarcoidosis; 99m technetium pyrophosphate (Tc PYP) or 99m technetium 3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid (TC-DPD): Transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis; cardiac computed tomography (CT): CHD, sinus of Valsalva aneurysm, aortic dissection, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy; echo longitudinal strain: Amyloidosis; transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): Endocarditis, sinus of Valsalva aneurysm, aortic dissection, CHD.[†] Refer to Section 6.4., Figure 7. ‡The atrioventricular node is more likely the site of block with second-degree Mobitz type I atrioventricular block and a narrow QRS complex or severe firstdegree atrioventricular block (.0.30 s) with a narrow QRS complex. AV 5 atrioventricular; ACHD 5 adult congenital heart disease; CHD 5 congenital heart disease; CM 5 cardiomyopathy.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e141

Table 4 Medications That Can Induce/Exacerbate Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

AntihypertensiveAntiarrhythmicPsychoactiveOther
- Beta-adrenergic receptor blockers- Adenosine- Donepezil- Anesthetic drugs (propofol)
(including beta-adrenergic blocking- Amiodarone- Lithium- Cannabis
eye drops used for glaucoma)- Dronedarone- Opioid analgesics- Digoxin
- Clonidine- Flecainide- Phenothiazine antiemetics and- Ivabradine
- Methyldopa- Procainamideantipsychotics- Muscle relaxants
- Non-dihydropyridine calcium channel- Propafenone- Phenytoin(e.g., succinylcholine)
blockers- Quinidine- Selective serotonin reuptake
- Reserpine- Sotalolinhibitors
- Tricyclic antidepressants

Table 5 Conditions Associated With Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders

Intrinsic Cardiomyopathy (ischemic or nonischemic) Congenital heart disease Degenerative fibrosis Infection/inflammation - Chagas disease - Diphtheria - Infectious endocarditis - Lyme disease - Myocarditis - Sarcoidosis - Toxoplasmosis Infiltrative disorders - Amyloidosis - Hemochromatosis - Lymphoma Ischemia/infarction Rheumatological conditions - Rheumatoid arthritis - Scleroderma - Systemic lupus erythematosus Surgical or procedural trauma - Cardiac procedures such as ablation or cardiac catheterization - Congenital heart disease surgery - Septal myomectomy for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy - Valve surgery (including percutaneous valve replacement) Extrinsic Autonomic perturbation - Carotid sinus hypersensitivity - Neurally-mediated syncope/presyncope - Physical conditioning - Situational syncope - Cough - Defecation - Glottic stimulation - Medical procedures - Micturition - Vomiting - Sleep (with or without sleep apnea) Metabolic - Acidosis - Hyperkalemia - Hypokalemia - Hypothermia - Hypothyroidism - Hypoxia

Adapted with permission from Mangrum and DiMarco[S4.1-3] and Vogler et al.[S4.1-4]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e142

4.2. Noninvasive Evaluation

4.2.1. Resting ECG in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendation for Electrocardiogram (ECG) in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders Referenced studies that the support recommendation are summarized in Online Data Supplement 1.

CORLOERecommendation
IB-NR1. In patients with suspected bradycardia or conduction disorder, a 12-lead ECG is recommended to document rhythm, rate, and conduction, and to screen for structural heart disease or systemic illness.S4.2.1-1—S4.2.1-4

Synopsis

The resting ECG is an essential component of the initial evaluation of those with known or suspected bradycardia or conduction disorder. An appropriately timed ECG during a symptomatic episode may provide a definitive diagnosis. For those in whom physical examination or telemetry monitoring suggest bradycardia or conduction disturbance, a 12lead ECG is useful to confirm the rhythm and rate, the nature and extent of conduction disturbance, and to document other abnormalities suggestive of structural heart or systemic disease (e.g., left ventricular hypertrophy, diagnostic Q waves, prolonged corrected QT interval, findings suggestive of hyperkalemia).

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Unless a patient with suspected bradycardia or conduction disorder is symptomatic or bradycardic at the time of the recording, the 12-lead ECG will not provide a rhythm correlation with symptoms. In patients presenting with syncope, the initial ECG provides a diagnosis in only approximately 5%[S4.2.1-2,S4.2.1-4] and in those with less well-defined clinical presentations and nonspecific

symptoms, the diagnostic yield is probably lower. However, an abnormal initial ECG is predictive of adverse outcomes in patients presenting with syncope and near syncope, in large part as an indicator of underlying structural heart disease or the presence of systemic disease. A multicenter, prospective observational study of syncope evaluated in the emergency department concluded that a broad range of electrocardiographic abnormalities was associated with increased all-cause mortality at 1 year.[S4.2.1-1] The prognostic value of an abnormal initial ECG in those with syncope and near syncope is reflected in its inclusion in most published multivariate risk scores used to predict adverse outcomes in this population.[S4.2.1-5] This risk does not necessarily correlate with pathological bradycardia as the mechanism of syncope, as only approximately 10% of syncope can be attributed to bradycardia or a conduction disorder at the time of initial presentation. An additional 18% can be attributed to neurally mediated syncope which frequently is manifest by both bradycardia and hypotension.[S4.2.1-2]

4.2.2. Exercise Electrocardiographic Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

RecommendationsforExerciseElectrocardiographicTestinginPatientsWithDocumentedorSuspectedBradycardiaorConductionDisorders Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 2.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaB-NR1. In patients with suspected chronotropic incompetence, exercise electrocardiographic testing is reasonable to ascertain the diagnosis and provide information on prognosis.S4.2.2-1,S4.2.2-2
IIaC-LD2. In patients with exercise-related symptoms suspicious for bradycardia or conduction disorders, or in
patients with 2:1 atrioventricular block of unknown level, exercise electrocardiographic testing is reasonable.S4.2.2-3,S4.2.2-4

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e143

Synopsis

Although there is no routine role for exercise electrocardiographic testing in the evaluation of patients with suspected or documented bradycardia/conduction disorder, it may be useful in selected patients. Limited observational data suggest that it can be useful in evaluating those whose symptoms occur during or immediately after exercise, including those suspected of chronotropic incompetence and exercise-induced, neurally mediated syncope. Occasionally, patients manifest conduction disorders precipitated by myocardial ischemia during exercise electrocardiographic testing. Exercise testing can be helpful in evaluating the impact of parasympathetic withdrawal and sympathetic activation on cardiac conduction (e.g., distinguishing atrioventricular nodal versus conduction disturbances in the His Purkinje system below the atrioventricular node [infranodal] in the setting of 2:1 atrioventricular nodal block).[S4.2.2-5]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Exercise electrocardiographic testing is integral to the diagnosis of chronotropic incompetence, a condition broadly defined as an inability to increase heart rate commensurate with the increased metabolic demands of physical activity.[S4.2.2-6] Chronotropic incompetence, often considered as failure to achieve 80% of agepredicted maximal heart rate but in practice much more difficult to define particularly in the presence of comorbidities, can contribute to exercise intolerance and connotes an adverse prognosis.[S4.2.2-1,S4.2.2-2,S4.2.2-7] Although estimates of prevalence range broadly from 9% to 89% it appears to be common in individuals with
  • cardiovascular disease, including one-third of those with congestive heart failure.[S4.2.2-6]
  1. In patients with exercise-related symptoms, the development or progression of atrioventricular block may occasionally be the underlying cause. Because worsening atrioventricular block with exercise is usually attributable to infranodal disease, exercise electrocardiographic testing may also be helpful for defining the site of atrioventricular block when unclear by ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring.[S4.2.2-4,S4.2.2-5,S4.2.2-8] Only rarely does exercise testing uncover otherwise occult and clinically significant conduction disorders. Although typically associated with signs and symptoms of ischemia during the test, exercise-induced conduction disorders have been reported without evidence of ischemia.[S4.2.2-4]

Conduction disorders elicited by exercise electrocardiographic testing in rare cases may be precipitated by myocardial ischemia or coronary vasospasm.[S4.2.2-9][—][S4.2.2-13] In a review of 2,200 consecutive exercise tests to assess the significance of transient intraventricular conduction abnormalities associated with myocardial ischemia, only 10 (0.45%) patients manifested both ischemia and intraventricular conduction abnormalities. Subsequent coronary angiography revealed significant stenosis of the left anterior descending coronary artery at or before the first septal branch in all 10.[S4.2.2-11] In patients presenting with syncope without exercise related symptoms, the yield of exercise electrocardiographic testing even with additional imaging modalities is low.[S4.2.2-14]

4.2.3. Ambulatory Electrocardiography in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendation for Ambulatory Electrocardiography in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders Referenced studies that support the recommendation are summarized in Online Data Supplement 3.

CORLOERecommendation
IB-NR1. In the evaluation of patients with documented or suspected bradycardia or conduction disorders,
cardiac rhythm monitoring is useful to establish correlation between heart rate or conduction
abnormalities with symptoms, with the specifc type of cardiac monitor chosen based on the frequency and nature of symptoms, as well as patient preferences.S4.2.3-1—S4.2.3-12

Synopsis

The intermittent nature of most symptomatic bradycardia and conduction disorders often necessitates a more prolonged form of electrocardiographic monitoring to correlate rhythm disturbances with symptoms. For those with daily symptoms, a 24- or 48-hour continuous ambulatory ECG (Holter monitor) is appropriate and, in active individuals, may help identify the presence or absence of chronotropic incompetence.[S4.2.3-13] Less frequent symptoms are best evaluated with more prolonged ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring that can be accomplished with a broad array of

modalities. Contemporary optionshavebeenrecentlyreviewed in a comprehensive expert consensus statement.[S4.2.3-14]

The yield of ambulatory monitoring for significant bradyarrhythmias varies according to the population studied but is typically,15%.[S4.2.3-13,S4.2.3-15,S4.2.3-16] However, in populations with nonspecific symptoms felt to be potentially arrhythmic, one-third of the population will manifest their presenting symptoms during continuous ambulatory monitoring without associated arrhythmia, a useful observation that often excludes arrhythmia or conduction disorder as the source.[S4.2.3-13]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e144

Table 6 Cardiac Rhythm Monitors

Table 6 Cardiac Rhythm Monitors
Types of MonitorDevice DescriptionPatient Selection
Nonphysician prescribed smartphone-based- Commercially available smartphone–Patient access to the technology
systemsbased systems
- Can record a rhythm strip when the
patient has symptoms or continuously
depending on the technology
Holter monitor- Continuous recording for 24–72 h; up toSymptoms frequent enough to be detected
2 wk with newer modelswithin a short period (24–72 h) of
- Symptom rhythm correlation can bemonitoring
achieved through a patient event diary
and patient-activated annotations
Patient-activated, transtelephonicA recording device that transmits patient-- Frequent, spontaneous symptoms likely
monitor (event monitor)activated data (live or stored) via anto recur within 2–6 wk
analog telephone line to a central remote- Limited use in patients with
monitoring station (e.g., physicianincapacitating symptoms
offce)
External loop recorder (patient or- A device that continuously records andFrequent, spontaneous symptoms
auto triggered)*stores rhythm data over weeks to monthspotentially related to bradycardia or
- Patient activated, or auto triggeredconduction disorder, likely to recur
(e.g., to record asymptomaticwithin 2–6 wk
arrhythmias) to provide a recording of
events antecedent to (3–14 min),
during, and after (1–4 min) the triggered
event
- Newer models are equipped with a
cellular telephone, which transmits
triggered data automatically over a
wireless network to a remote monitoring
system
External patch recorders- Patch device that continuously records- Can be considered as an alternative to
and stores rhythm data, with patient-external loop recorder
trigger capability to allow for symptom-- Given that it is leadless, can be
rhythm correlationaccurately self-applied, and is largely
- No leads or wires, and adhesive to chestwater resistant, it may be more
wall/sternumcomfortable and less cumbersome than
- Various models record from 2–14 dan external loop recorder, potentially
- Offers accurate means of assessingimproving compliance
burden of AF- Unlike Holter monitors and other
- Patient activated, or auto triggeredexternal monitors, it offers only 1-lead
(e.g., to record asymptomaticrecording
arrhythmias) to provide a recording of
events antecedent to, during, and after
the triggered event
Mobile cardiac outpatient telemetry- Device that records and transmits data- Spontaneous symptoms, potentially
(up to 30 d) from preprogrammedrelated to bradycardia or conduction
arrhythmias or patient activation to adisorder, that are too brief, too subtle, or
communication hub at the patient’stoo infrequent to be readily documented
homewith patient activated monitors
- Signifcant arrhythmias are detected; the- In high-risk patients whose rhythm
monitor automatically transmits therequires real-time monitoring
patient’s electrocardiographic data
through a wireless network to the central
monitoring station, which is attended by
trained technicians 24 h/d
Implantable cardiac monitor- Subcutaneously implanted device, with aRecurrent, infrequent, unexplained
battery life of 2–3 ysymptoms, potentially related to
- Triggered by the patient (or often familybradycardia or conduction disorder after
member witness) to store the event.a nondiagnostic initial workup, with or
- Models allow for transtelephonicwithout structural heart disease
transmission, as well as automatic
detection of signifcant arrhythmias with
remote monitoring

AF 5 atrial brillation.

*Higher yield in patients who are able to record a diary to correlate with possible arrhythmia. Adapted with permission from Shen et al.[S4.2.3-19]

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e145

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In a prospective study of 95 individuals with syncope of uncertain origin after history, physical examination and ECG, up to 72 hours of continuous ambulatory monitoring uncovered significant bradyarrhythmia in 11%.[S4.2.3-15] In patients with less specific symptoms, the diagnostic yield of continuous ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring for bradyarrhythmias is even lower. A study of 518 consecutive 24-hour Holter monitors performed for a broad range of cardiac symptoms revealed significant bradyarrhythmia in only 4%, and none manifested advanced atrioventricular block.[S4.2.3-16] External loop recorders, transtelephonic event recorders, adhesive patch recorders, and mobile continuous outpatient telemetry monitoring provide a higher diagnostic yield than 24or 48-hour Holter monitoring because of the longer period
  • of monitoring. These prolonged monitoring strategies can be useful in the evaluation of suspected bradycardia or conduction disorders.[S4.2.3-1][—][S4.2.3-3,S4.2.3-5,S4.2.3-7][—][S4.2.] 3-12,S4.2.3-17 The characteristics of available ambulatory monitoring systems and their proper selection were recently reviewed[S4.2.3-14,S4.2.3-18] and have been tabulated in the 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Patients with Syncope (Table 6).[S4.2.3-19] Choice of device is predicated on frequency of symptoms and the degree to which symptoms incapacitate the patient.[S4.2.3-13,S4.2.3-14,S4.2.3-18][—][S4.2.3-20] Whatever monitoring system is chosen, it is important for the appropriate infrastructure to be present to facilitate timely notification of the patient and healthcare provider when a potentially dangerous abnormality is identified.

4.2.4. Imaging in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendations for Cardiac Imaging in Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 3 and 4.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients with newly identifed LBBB, second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block,
high-grade atrioventricular block, or third-degree atrioventricular block with or without
apparent structural heart disease or coronary artery disease, transthoracic echocardiography is recommended.S4.2.4-1—S4.2.4-10
IIaB-NR2. In selected patients presenting with bradycardia or conduction disorders other than LBBB, second-
degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, high-grade atrioventricular block, or third-degree
atrioventricular block, transthoracic echocardiography is reasonable if structural heart disease is suspected.S4.2.4-3,S4.2.4-11—S4.2.4-13
IIaC-LD3. In selected patients with bradycardia or bundle branch block, disease-specifc advanced imaging (e.g.,
transesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging [MRI],
or nuclear imaging) is reasonable if structural heart disease is suspected yet not confrmed by other diagnostic modalities.S4.2.4-14—S4.2.4-22
III: NoB-NR4. In the evaluation of patients with asymptomatic sinus bradycardia orfrst-degree atrioventricular
Beneftblock and no clinical evidence of structural heart disease, routine cardiac imaging is not indicated.S4.2.4-22—S4.2.4-24

Synopsis

Because bradycardia or conduction disorders can be present in a wide variety of cardiovascular and systemic diseases and, because the prognosis of documented bradyarrhythmias is heavily influenced by the presence of underlying structural heart disease, assessment of cardiac structure and function is often clinically indicated. In an international survey of 43 medical centers belonging to the European Heart Rhythm Association’s electrophysiology research network, 66% reported that they “always or almost always” perform an echocardiogram in patients presenting with syncope. An additional 27% reported that they pursue such testing in “ ”[S4.2.4-25] most cases. The ACCF/ASE/AHA/ASNC/HFSA/ HRS/SCAI/SCCM/SCCT/SCMR 2011 appropriate use criteria for echocardiography endorses the propriety of echocardiography in patients with symptoms suspected to be

cardiac in origin, including symptoms potentially caused by bradycardia or conduction disorders such as syncope, or lightheadedness/presyncope with signs or symptoms of cardiovascular disease known to cause such symptoms (e.g., aortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or heart failure).[S4.2.4-12] Advanced imaging, both cardiac and noncardiac, can be helpful in carefully selected patients suspected to have structural cardiac disease known to be associated with bradycardia or conduction disturbances that is not apparent on echocardiogram and those patients in whom heterotaxy syndromes such as polysplenia is suspected.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In unselected populations, those with LBBB have a higher prevalence of both cardiovascular and noncardiovascular comorbidities[S4.2.4-6] and an increased likelihood of

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e146

underlying structural heart disease.[S4.2.4-4,S4.2.4-8,S4.2.4-10] Longitudinal, community-based and cohort studies suggest an associated increased risk of cardiovascular death, sudden death, and death from congestive heart failure, without an increase in all-cause mortality.[S4.2.4-1,S4.2.4-2,] S4.2.4-5,S4.2.4-9,S4.2.4-10,S4.2.4-26,S4.2.4-27 Some also suggest

increased incident coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure during follow-up.[S4.2.4-1,S4.2.4-2,] S4.2.4-8,S4.2.4-9 The clinical implications of asymptomatic LBBB in young, apparently healthy individuals may differ from those in an older or sicker population.[S4.2.4-28,S4.2.4-29] Nonetheless, excluding associated structural heart disease in all patients with LBBB is prudent as the conduction disorder may not only be a harbinger of occult structural or ischemic heart disease but also connotes an elevated risk should they be present[S4.2.4-1,S4.2.4-7,S4.2.4-30][—][S4.2.4-36] and may influence management in some forms of structural heart disease. Most notably, LBBB helps identify candidates for re-synchronization therapy in those with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.[S4.2.4-37,S4.2.4-38] Although no prospective studies have defined the outcome of echocardiography-guided management in asymptomatic LBBB, the presence of LBBB in patients referred for echocardiography in evaluation of suspected congestive heart failure confers nearly a 4-fold increased likelihood of left ventricular systolic dysfunction.[S4.2.4-3]

  1. Transthoracic echocardiography can identify various structural cardiac abnormalities underlying bradycardia or conduction disturbance, including cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, congenital anomalies, tumors, infections, infiltrative processes, immunologically mediated conditions, and diseases of the great vessels and pericardium.[S4.2.4-12] However, the yield is higher when there are clinical indications of structural disease, including in patients with syncope who manifest signs or symptoms of cardiac disease (e.g., bradycardia or conduction disorders).[S4.2.4-11,S4.2.4-22,S4.2.4-24] Transthoracic echocardiography can be prognostic, as well, both in those presenting with syncope[S4.2.4-39] and in those who are less profoundly symptomatic. A prospective study of 35 untreated patients age.45 years with symptomatic SND suggested that echocardiographic parameters like left ventricular end-diastolic diameter and ejection fraction predict adverse cardiac events such as syncope, heart

failure, and atrial tachyarrhythmias, when followed for up to 4 years.[S4.2.4-13]

  1. Cardiac MRI and computed tomography can be helpful in carefully selected patients to identify conditions known to contribute to conduction disturbance or SND. Specifically, MRI can be helpful in diagnosing infiltrative processes, including sarcoidosis, hemochromatosis, and amyloidosis.[S4.2.4-16][—][S4.2.4-19,S4.2.4-40][—][S4.2.4-56] Cardiac computed tomography can be similarly helpful, particularly when MRI is contraindicated or unavailable. It offers superior information regarding calcification of cardiac structures and has some advantages in evaluating coronary artery anatomy when epicardial coronary atherosclerotic disease is suspected.[S4.2.4-14,S4.2.4-57] Both computed tomography and MRI offer high-quality information regarding cardiovascular structure in the setting of congenital heart disease.[S4.2.4-21,S4.2.4-57] Cardiac nuclear imaging techniques can be useful to detect and/or discriminate amongst infiltrative cardiomyopathies, most notably in distinguishing between wild-type transthyretin and light chain cardiac amyloidosis and diagnosing cardiac sarcoidosis using fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomographic imaging.[S4.2.4-15,S4.2.4-20] Transesophageal echocardiography can be a useful adjunct for endocarditis with or without perivalvular complications, aortic dissection, or unruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm which have all been occasionally associated with bradycardia or conduction block.[S4.2.4-58][—][S4.2.4-64] When bradycardia or conduction disorders are accompanied by clinical suspicion of structural heart disease undiagnosed by echocardiography, 1 of these advanced imaging tests is usually helpful.

  2. The diagnostic yield of transthoracic echocardiography in patients without clinical evidence (e.g., history, physical examination, ECG) of heart disease is low and echocardiography is not recommended in such patients.[S4.2.4-12] In some clinical circumstances, patients may manifest symptoms that might indicate cardiac disease, including symptoms potentially related to bradycardia or conduction disorders, such as syncope and presyncope. Individuals presenting with such symptoms but without other clinical evidence of structural heart disease are unlikely to benefit from routine imaging, as recently reviewed in the 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope.[S4.2.4-65]

4.2.5. Laboratory Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendation for Laboratory Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

CORLOERecommendation
IIaC-LD1. In patients with bradycardia, laboratory tests (e.g., thyroid function tests, Lyme titer, potassium, pH) based on clinical suspicion for a potential underlying cause are reasonable.S4.2.5-1—S4.2.5-4

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e147

Synopsis

Bradycardia attributable to SND or atrioventricular block may be secondary conditions such as hypothyroidism, rheumatologic disorders, and infectious disorders. Although there are many case reports of specific diseases associated with bradycardia where the diagnosis was aided by laboratory testing, there has been no study evaluating the diagnostic yield and benefits of routine comprehensive laboratory testing in patients presenting with bradycardia or conduction tissue abnormalities. Potential causes for bradycardia and conduction abnormalities are provided in Tables 3 and 4.

laboratory testing directed toward a specific diagnosis can be useful.[S4.2.5-1][—][S4.2.5-5] For example, thyroid function tests in the patient with bradycardia attributable to suspected hypothyroidism or Lyme titer to identify acute Lyme carditis in a young person who develops atrioventricular block in an endemic area.[S4.2.] 5-3,S4.2.5-5 However, there have been no studies that have systematically evaluated the additional value of laboratory testing in patients who present primarily with bradycardia.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Isolated case reports have identified medical conditions that can be associated with bradycardia in which

4.2.6. Genetic Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendations for Genetic Testing in Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

CORLOERecommendations
IC-EO1. In patients in whom a conduction disorder-causative mutation has been identifed, genetic counseling and
mutation-specifc genetic testing offrst-degree relatives is recommended to identify similarly affected
individuals.
IIbC-EO2. In patients with inherited conduction disease, genetic counseling and targeted testing may be considered to
facilitate cascade screening of relatives as part of the diagnostic evaluation.

Synopsis

Although most sinus node disorders and conduction disturbances in adults are attributable to increased vagal tone or acquired disease, genetic mutations may also contribute.[S4.2.6-1][—][S4.2.6-4] Although familial disorders of conduction abnormalities and sinus node function are rare, a growing number of genetic mutations have been linked to a range of abnormalities that may present as isolated SND or conduction disease, or in association with cardiomyopathy, congenital cardiac anomalies, noncardiac developmental disorders, skeletal muscular disorders, or tachyarrhythmias.[S4.2.6-5] The implicated genes code for ion channels and their regulatory factors, nuclear envelope proteins, membrane adaptor protein, transcription factors, calcium handling proteins of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, gap junctions, cardiac hormones, and sarcomeric proteins.[S4.2.6-1]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. An international consensus panel has endorsed mutationspecific genetic testing for “family members and appropriate relatives” after the identification of a progressive cardiac conduction disease-causative mutation in an index case. Although the consensus document does not explicitly define “family members and appropriate relatives,” one can infer this to mean first-degree relatives (with or without evidence of conduction disease) and more remote relatives with suspicious clinical characteristics for conduction disease. Such testing can be deferred in

asymptomatic children because of the age-dependent nature of progressive conduction disease and incomplete penetrance.[S4.2.6-5] Asymptomatic family members who carry the conduction disease-associated mutation and those first-degree relatives of an affected proband who have not undergone mutation-specific genetic testing should be followed regularly for signs of evolving conduction disease, cardiomyopathy or tachyarrhythmia. Before mutation-specific testing, genetic counseling is essential to determine whether to proceed in an individual case.

  1. The most common identifiable gene responsible for inherited conduction disease (the SCN5A gene encoding the cardiac sodium channel alpha subunit) accounts for only 5% of progressive conduction disease cases.[S4.2.6-5] All other identified genes, in aggregate, account for a substantially smaller proportion. Mutations in the cardiac pacemaker channel gene HCN4 have been implicated in idiopathic SND.[S4.2.6-6,S4.2.6-7] Nonetheless, most SND is physiologic or acquired, and genetic testing is not routinely indicated.[S4.2.6-5]

  2. Citing undefined diagnostic yield and “signal-to-noise” ratio for genetic testing in progressive cardiac conduction disease, as well as uncertain rates of rare variants of uncertain significance in control subjects, an international consensus document suggests that the diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic value of genetic testing is limited in evaluating an index case.[S4.2.6-5] The writing committee

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e148

did not endorse routine genetic testing in patients with SND or conduction disease. Based primarily on expert opinion, the writing committee suggested that genetic testing may still be considered as part of the diagnostic evaluation for select patients with either isolated conduction disease or conduction disease with concomitant

congenital heart disease, especially when there is a positive family history of conduction disease.

4.2.7. Sleep Apnea Evaluation and Treatment in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendations for Sleep ApneaEvaluationandTreatmentinPatientsWith Documentedor SuspectedBradycardiaor ConductionDisorders Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 5.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients with documented or suspected bradycardia or conduction disorder during sleep, screening for
symptoms of sleep apnea syndrome is recommended with subsequent confrmatory testing directed by clinical suspicion.S4.2.7-1—S4.2.7-11
IB-NR2. In patients with sleep-related bradycardia or conduction disorder and documented obstructive sleep apnea,
treatment directed specifcally at the sleep apnea (e.g., continuous positive airway pressure and weight loss) is recommended.S4.2.7-12—S4.2.7-16
IIaB-NR3. In patients who have previously received or are being considered for a PPM for bradycardia or conduction disorder, screening for sleep apnea syndrome is reasonable.S4.2.7-10,S4.2.7-11

Synopsis

Nocturnal bradyarrhythmias are common in both health and disease. Sinus bradycardia is the most common bradyarrhythmia encountered during sleep. However, sinus arrest, sinus exit block, all degrees of atrioventricular block, junctional rhythm, and periods of asystole also occur on occasion.[S4.2.] 7-17—S4.2.7-19 These are particularly common in the young and in the conditioned athlete and can be profound.[S4.2.] 7-20—S4.2.7-23 In most circumstances these are physiological, vagally mediated, asymptomatic events which require no intervention. The frequency of nocturnal bradyarrhythmias appears to decline in middle-aged and older healthy individuals.[S4.2.7-17][—][S4.2.7-19] Those who manifest sleep apnea syndrome, however, demonstrate a higher prevalence of sleep-related bradycardia and conduction disorders, primarily during apneic episodes.[S4.2.7-1][—][S4.2.7-11] In such individuals, wakeful bradyarrhythmias are uncommon and these nocturnal arrhythmias are usually asymptomatic. In patients with sleep apnea and sleep-related bradyarrhythmias, frequency of episodes is decreased with continuous positive airway pressure and patients are unlikely to develop symptomatic bradycardia in long-term follow-up.[S4.2.7-12][—][S4.2.] 7-15 Treating the underlying sleep apnea not only alleviates apnea-related symptoms and improves cardiovascular outcome, it also eliminates the need for pacemaker implantation in most patients.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Sleep disordered breathing is common with an estimated prevalence in the United States of 24% in men and 9% in women, much of which is either asymptomatic or unrecognized.[S4.2.7-24] The prevalence is higher in
  • populations with cardiovascular diseases, ranging as high as 47% to 83%, depending on the specific disorder.[S4.2.7-25] Estimated rates of profound nocturnal sinus bradycardia range from 7.2% to 40%. Rates of secondor third-degree atrioventricular block range from 1.3% to 13.3%, and rates of sinus pauses range from 3.3% to 33%.[S4.2.7-1][—][S4.2.7-3,S4.2.7-5][—][S4.2.7-9] The prevalence of these arrhythmias appears to increase with the severity of sleep apnea.[S4.2.7-1,S4.2.7-2,S4.2.7-5] A stereotypical pattern of progressive bradycardia during apnea/ hypopnea (often profound) followed by tachycardia and hypertension during partial arousal (presumably precipitated by hypoxia) has been frequently described and cited by some as an electrocardiographic means of indirectly diagnosing the condition.[S4.2.7-1,S4.2.7-26]
  1. Because both sleep disordered breathing and nocturnal bradyarrhythmias are relatively common, and treatment of sleep apnea not only dramatically reduces the frequency of these arrhythmias but also may offer cardiovascular benefits,[S4.2.7-25] the presence of nocturnal bradyarrhythmias should prompt screening for sleep apnea, starting with solicitation of suspicious symptoms and pursuing additional testing if appropriate.

  2. Nocturnal arrhythmias associated with obstructive sleep apnea are effectively suppressed with treatment of the underlying sleep apnea. Small studies assessing the frequency and distribution of arrhythmias during polysomnography before and after initiating continuous positive airway pressure (and/or bilevel positive airway pressure) consistently demonstrate dramatic improvements in both metrics of sleep disordered breathing and sleep-related bradyarrhythmias with continuous

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e149

  • positive airway pressure.[S4.2.7-12][—][S4.2.7-15] Episodes of profound sinus bradycardia, prolonged sinus pauses, and atrioventricular conduction block are reduced by 72% to 89% in these studies. One of these studies followed their patients for 54610 months on continuous positive airway pressure therapy (with 58% complete compliance rate). None of the 17 participants without pacemakers experienced symptomatic bradycardia during this time.[S4.2.7-14]
  1. The prevalence of undiagnosed sleep apnea may be high in patients referred for pacemaker implantation for asymptomatic bradycardia and in unselected recipients of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIED).[S4.2.7-10,] S4.2.7-11 In a small, but illustrative, study, 7 patients with asymptomatic nocturnal bradyarrhythmias referred for pacemaker were queried for symptoms of sleep apnea. Suspicious symptoms prompted polysomnography that confirmed previously unsuspected obstructive sleep
  • apnea in all. Over 22 months of follow-up, 86% remained free of bradyarrhythmia symptoms on treatment for sleep apnea but without a pacemaker.[S4.2.7-10] A second illustrative study involved 98 consecutive patients with PPMs, implanted for a variety of indications, who were systematically screened with the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and polysomnography. Although only 25% of the group had Epworth Sleepiness Scale score.11 (normal, 0-10), 59% were diagnosed with sleep apnea by polysomnography. The sleep apnea was severe in 27% of the 69 subjects receiving a pacemaker for indications other than cardiac resynchronization.[S4.2.7-11] Thus, conditions prompting consideration for CIED likely define a population at higher risk of sleep disordered breathing. This likely relates only partially to apnea-induced bradyarrhythmia. The complex interaction between sleep disordered breathing and a broad array of cardiovascular diseases likely contributes, as well.[S4.2.7-25]

4.3. Invasive Testing

4.3.1. Implantable Cardiac Monitor in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendation for Implantable Cardiac Monitor in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders Referenced studies that support the recommendation are summarized in Online Data Supplement 6.

CORLOERecommendation
IIaC-LD1. In patients with infrequent symptoms (.30 days between symptoms) suspected to be
caused by bradycardia, long-term ambulatory monitoring with an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM) is reasonable if initial noninvasive evaluation is nondiagnostic.S4.3.1-1—S4.3.1-3

Synopsis

One of the most debilitating symptoms of bradycardia is syncope resulting in trauma. The suddenness and unpredictability of such events make the ICM an ideal diagnostic tool given its capacity for prolonged monitoring (up to 3 years) and its freedom of reliance on active patient participation. Early work[S4.3.1-4] as well as subsequent randomized and nonrandomized studies evaluating the diagnostic efficacy of ICM were almost exclusively performed in patients presenting with unexplained syncope and/or presyncope and not specifically for identification of bradycardia.[S4.3.1-5] In patients with ongoing or frequent symptoms of bradycardia, the 12lead ECG or external ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring can usually document SND or atrioventricular conduction disease. However, when patients present with infrequent paroxysmal or infrequent symptoms, culprit bradycardias can evade the detection by standard external monitoring modalities. Longer duration of ambulatory monitoring with ICM may then be necessary to obtain correlation between bradycardia and symptoms.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the diagnostic value of ICM in patients presenting with unexplained syncope or presyncope.[S4.3.1-1][—][S4.3.1-3] Compared with investigation by conventional testing modalities such as 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring, 12-lead ECG, and treadmill stress test, the strategy of long-term rhythm monitoring with ICM was more effective in obtaining a clinical diagnosis. Many of the conditions diagnosed by ICM were found to be bradycardia-mediated (i.e., high-grade atrioventricular block, SND, neurocardiogenic syncope with predominant cardio-inhibitory component) and were successfully treated with permanent cardiac pacing. Most patients with clinically significant bradycardia presenting with symptoms other than syncope (e.g., fatigue, dyspnea on exertion) do not typically need prolonged ambulatory monitoring for diagnosis. Nevertheless, in some patients, the diagnosis may remain inconclusive or uncertain after

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e150

initial noninvasive evaluation. External monitors will generally be the first-line choice of diagnostic tools in an effort to obtain potential correlation between bradycardia and symptoms but, for patients with very infrequent

symptoms, initial ICM implantation may be the best and most cost-effective initial strategy.[S4.3.1-2]

4.3.2. Electrophysiology Study in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

Recommendation for Electrophysiology Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders Referenced studies that support the recommendation are summarized in Online Data Supplement 7.

CORLOERecommendation
IIbC-LD1. In patients with symptoms suspected to be attributable to bradycardia, an electrophysiology
study (EPS) may be considered in selected patients for diagnosis of, and elucidation of bradycardia mechanism, if initial noninvasive evaluation is nondiagnostic.S4.3.2-1—S4.3.2-5

Synopsis

An EPS is an invasive, catheter-based procedure that can be used to test the integrity of cardiac conduction system and to assess potential inducibility of various cardiac tachyarrhythmias. EPS are well tolerated and the risk of serious procedural complications such as cardiac tamponade and lifethreatening ventricular arrhythmia is minimal.[S4.3.2-2,S4.3.2-5] The goal of an EPS in the context of bradycardia evaluation is to identify the presence of abnormal sinus node function or atrioventricular conduction, and the anatomic location of any conduction disorder. Pharmacologic drugs are sometimes administered during an EPS as a part of study protocol to modulate the autonomic tone or to “stress” the sinus node, atrioventricular conduction, and intraventricular conduction. An EPS in a patient thought to have bradycardia may uncover possible tachycardia mechanisms for symptoms. An EPS is generally not performed as the first-line diagnostic assessment in patients with suspected bradycardia. Most patients who undergo an EPS have already undergone a series of noninvasive cardiac evaluations, such as ECG, tilt table testing, echocardiogram, and/or ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring, which may have been inconclusive. EPS have been performed almost exclusively in patients with unexplained syncope or presyncope, and some of these cases were found to be bradycardia mediated.[S4.3.2-1][—][S4.3.2-4]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. The diagnostic yield of EPS in symptomatic patients with suspected bradycardia has been shown to vary widely (range, 12%–80%), depending on the patient population studied.[S4.3.2-1,S4.3.2-3] In 1 study of patients presenting with unexplained syncope, those who had history of heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, hypertension, mitral valve prolapse) had a higher incidence of an abnormal EPS compared with patients who had a structurally normal heart.[S4.3.2-5] In addition,

the likelihood of an abnormal EPS was greater in patients who had an abnormal ECG at baseline (e.g., bundle branch block or prior myocardial infarction [MI]).[S4.3.2-4] In most cases, the cause of symptomatic bradycardia can be established without invasive evaluation. The use of an EPS has almost exclusively been examined in patients with syncope or presyncope, and is generally an adjunctive tool in the evaluation of patients in whom bradycardia is suspected but has not been documented after noninvasive evaluation.[S4.3.2-6] Although correlation between symptoms and rhythm remain the cornerstone for management of patients with syncope, EPS may be a reasonable approach in a patient with syncope associated with trauma who also has a high pretest probability for significant conduction disease (e.g., LBBB).[S4.3.2-6][—][S4.3.2-8] EPS may also be performed when the patient is undergoing an invasive procedure such as an endomyocardial biopsy.

5. Bradycardia Attributable to SND

5.1. Pathology/Pathophysiology/Etiology of SND

The pathophysiology of SND is varied and usually involves complex electrophysiologic and structural remodeling. The sinoatrial node is comprised of a complex matrix of pacemaker cells, transitional cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and extracellular scaffolding, and is characterized by a unique ion channel and connexin expression profile that results in chronotropic automaticity.[S5.1-1] Genome-wide association analyses have identified multiple loci in ion channel and channel interacting proteins related to normal and abnormal resting heart rates, providing insight into mechanisms controlling heart rate that may someday translate to new therapeutic targets.[S5.1-2][—][S5.1-7] The specialized cardiomyocytes of the sinus node are surrounded by strands of connective tissue that electrically insulate the pacemaker cells from atrial myocardial tissue; this structural support appears to be essential for normal functioning as it protects pacemaker

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e151

cells from the suppressive effects of hyperpolarization from adjacent myocytes.[S5.1-8] Collagen content of the heart increases with age, however, and this increased fibrosis is correlated with slower heart rate and slower sinoatrial conduction times (SACT).[S5.1-8] A histopathologic study of 111 patients with both normal rhythm, SND and atrial arrhythmias demonstrated an association between more extensive fibrosis and subjects with SND or tachy-brady syndrome.[S5.1-9] Notably, fibrosis of the sinus node was also associated with fibrosis in the atrioventricular node.[S5.1-1,S5.1-8][—][S5.1-10]

Asymptomatic sinus bradycardia has not been associated with adverse outcomes.[S5.1-11,S5.1-12] However, patients with symptoms attributable to SND have a high risk of cardiovascular events including syncope, AF, and heart failure.[S5.1-13] Moreover, the development of chronotropic incompetence with age is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular death and overall mortality.[S5.1-14,S5.1-15] Although the underlying causes are not well understood, heart rate variability also decreases with age.[S5.1-16]

5.2. Clinical Presentation of SND

Symptoms attributable to SND can range from mild fatigue to franksyncope.Theseverityofclinicalmanifestationsgenerally

correlates with the heart rate or the pause duration. Syncope is a common manifestation and, in 1 trial,[S5.2-1] was present in 50% of patients who received pacemakers for SND. Other clinical symptoms include dyspnea on exertion caused bychronotropic incompetence, lightheadedness, and chronic fatigue. Patients with SND may manifest symptoms attributable to sinus bradycardia, sinus arrest or sinoatrial exit block. Correlation between symptoms and bradycardia is considered to be the “gold standard” of diagnosis. However, it may be difficult to establish this correlation in some cases because of the presence of competing etiologies of symptoms as well as limitations in monitoring (e.g., comorbid conditions that prohibit long-term monitoring because of fear of injuries).

5.3. Acute Management of SND

A master algorithm for the acute management of bradycardia is given in Figure 4. Specific subsections address acute management of drug toxicity for bradycardia attributable to SND or atrioventricular block, and reversible causes, acute medical therapies, and temporary pacing specifically in the setting of SND.

5.3.1. Acute Management of Reversible Causes of SND

Recommendation for Acute Management of Reversible Causes for Bradycardia Attributable to SND

CORLOERecommendation
IC-EO1. In symptomatic patients presenting with SND, evaluation and treatment of reversible causes is
recommended.

Synopsis

Most patients with SND present with chronic complaints that do not require acute treatment. In addition, most causes of SND are chronic and irreversible. In some cases, sinus bradyarrhythmias are attributable to potentially reversible causes such as acute MI, atrial tachyarrhythmias, electrolyte abnormalities, hypothyroidism, medications, infections, and metabolic abnormalities (Table 7).

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Because patients are typically stable and minimally symptomatic on presentation with SND, no acute ther-

apy is usually required, and evaluation of SND and assessment for potentially reversible causes can be performed in an outpatient setting.[S5.3.1-6,S5.3.1-33][—][S5.3.1-53] In some cases, although evaluation of reversible causes for SND should be undertaken, treatment may not be necessary (e.g., stopping a beta blocker in an asymptomatic patient with sinus bradycardia after STelevation MI).[S5.3.1-54] Notably, some patients with tachy-brady syndrome may have improvement of sinoatrial node function after treatment aimed at maintaining sinus rhythm.[S5.3.1-6]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e152

----- Start of picture text ----- Acute Bradycardia VS, H+P, ECG Assessment of stability ----- End of picture text -----

----- Start of picture text ----- Assess for and treat reversible causes (COR I) Moderate Evaluation and or severe symptoms No observation Yes Atropine* (Class IIa) Drug Type? Yes Toxicity?† Calcium channel Beta Digoxin blocker blocker No IV Calcium Anti-digoxin Fab (COR IIa) (COR IIa) IV Glucagon (COR IIa) High dose Insulin Continued (COR IIa) symptoms? Yes Severe symptoms/ Acute Pacing Yes hemodynamically Algorithm‡ unstable No MI with Aminophylline Yes AV Block? (COR IIb) No Beta-agonists (COR IIb) Yes Continued symptoms? Yes Acute Pacing Algorithm‡ ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 4 Acute Bradycardia Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. See Sections 5.3. and 6.3. for discussion. *Atropine should not be given in patients after heart transplant.[†] In patients with drug toxicity and severe symptoms, preparation for pacing should proceed simultaneously with pharmacologic treatment of drug toxicity.[‡] Refer to Section 5.3.3., Figure 5. AADs 5 antiarrhythmic drugs; AV 5 atrioventricular; BB 5 beta blocker; CCB 5 calcium channel blocker; COR 5 Class of Recommendation; ECG 5 electrocardiographic; H1P 5 history and physical examination; IMI 5 inferior myocardial infarction; IV 5 intravenous; PM 5 pacemaker; S/P 5 status post; VS 5 vital signs.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e153

Table 7 Common Potentially Reversible or Treatable Causes of SND[S5.3.1-1]

Acute myocardial ischemia or infarction[S5.3.1-2][—][S5.3.1-4] Athletic training[S5.3.1-5] Atrial fibrillation[S5.3.1-6] Cardiac surgery - Valve replacement,[S5.3.1-7,S5.3.1-8] maze procedure,[S5.3.1-7] coronary artery bypass graft[S5.3.1-9,S5.3.1-10] Drugs or toxins* - Toluene, organophosphates, tetrodotoxin, cocaine[S5.3.1-11] Electrolyte abnormality - Hyperkalemia,[S5.3.1-12] hypokalemia,[S5.3.1-13] hypoglycemia[S5.3.1-14] Heart transplant[S5.3.1-15]: Acute rejection, chronic rejection, remodeling[S5.3.1-16,S5.3.1-17] Hypervagotonia[S5.3.1-18,S5.3.1-19] Hypothermia - Therapeutic (post-cardiac arrest cooling[S5.3.1-20]) or environmental exposure[S5.3.1-21] Hypothyroidism[S5.3.1-22] Hypovolemic shock[S5.3.1-23] Hypoxemia, hypercarbia, acidosis[S5.3.1-24] - Sleep apnea, respiratory insufficiency (suffocation, drowning,[S5.3.1-25] stroke,[S5.3.1-26] drug overdose) Infection[S5.3.1-27] - Lyme disease,[S5.3.1-28] legionella, psittacosis, typhoid fever, typhus, listeria,[S5.3.1-29] malaria, leptospirosis, Dengue fever, viral hemorrhagic fevers, Guillain-Barre[S5.3.1-30] Medications* - Beta blockers, non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, digoxin,[S5.3.1-31] antiarrhythmic drugs, lithium,[S5.3.1-32] methyldopa, risperidone, cisplatin, interferon

*Partial list.

5.3.2. Acute Medical Therapy for Bradycardia

5.3.2.1. Atropine and Beta Agonists for Bradycardia Attributable to SND

Recommendations for Atropine and Beta Agonists for Bradycardia Attributable to SND Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 8, 9, 10, and 11.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaC-LD1. In patients with SND associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise, atropine is reasonable to increase sinus rate.S5.3.2.1-1—S5.3.2.1-4
IIbC-LD2. In patients with SND associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise who are at low
likelihood of coronary ischemia, isoproterenol, dopamine, dobutamine, or epinephrine may be considered to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S5.3.2.1-5—S5.3.2.1-11
III: HarmC-LD3. In patients who have undergone heart transplant without evidence for autonomic reinnervation, atropine should not be used to treat sinus bradycardia.S5.3.2.1-12,S5.3.2.1-13

Synopsis

Several drugs can be used for the acute treatment of bradycardia (Table 8). Atropine is a parasympatholytic drug that blocks the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor. In the sinus node, it facilitates sinoatrial conduction and increases sinus node automaticity at doses of approximately 0.5 to 2 mg with a half-life of approximately 2 hours.[S5.3.2.1-14,S5.3.2.1-15]

Isoproterenol is a nonselective beta agonist with both chronotropic and inotropic effects on cardiac myocytes, enhancing sinus and atrioventricular nodal function without exerting a vasopressor effect.[S5.3.2.1-16,S5.3.2.1-17] In patients with SND undergoing isoproterenol infusion in the electrophysiology laboratory setting, heart rate increases similar to normal controls are described, although some patients do not demonstrate a robust heart rate response,

may require higher dosages, or may have a vasodilatory effect.[S5.3.2.1-7,S5.3.2.1-8,S5.3.2.1-10]

Dopamine is a catecholamine with mixed alphaadrenergic, beta-adrenergic, and dopaminergic effects that depend on dosage, distribution, and metabolism.[S5.3.2.1-18] At lower doses of 1 to 2 mcg/kg/min, the effect is predominantly vasodilatory, while at doses of 5 to 20 mcg/kg/min, enhanced chronotropy and inotropy predominate. Higher doses may be required for a chronotropic response but must be used judiciously because of the association with profound vasoconstriction and proarrhythmias.[S5.3.2.1-19] Epinephrine is a catecholamine with strong alphaadrenergic and beta-adrenergic stimulatory effects, including increasing chronotropy, inotropy, blood pressure, and myocardial oxygen consumption.[S5.3.2.1-20] The standard

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e154

Table 8 Acute Medical Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND or Atrioventricular Block

MedicationDosageComments
Symptomatic sinus bradycardia oratrioventricular block
Atropine0.5-1 mg IV (may be repeated every 3-5 min to a maximum dose of 3 mg)S5.3.2.4-20—S5.3.2.4-24
Dopamine5 to 20 mcg/kg/min IV, starting at 5 mcg/kg/minDosages of.20 mcg/kg/min may result
and increasing by 5 mcg/kg/min every 2 minS5.3.2.4-25in vasoconstriction or arrhythmias
Isoproterenol20-60 mcg IV bolus followed doses of 10-20 mcg,Monitor for potential development of
or infusion of 1-20 mcg/min based on heart rate response S5.3.2.4-26—S5.3.2.4-32ischemic chest pain
Epinephrine2-10 mcg/min IV or 0.1-0.5 mcg/kg/min IV titrated to desired effect S5.3.2.4-17,S5.3.2.4-31,S5.3.
2.4-33
Second- or third-degree atrioventricular block associated with acute inferior MI
Aminophylline250-mg IV bolus
Calcium channel blocker overdose
10% calcium chloride1-2 g IV every 10-20 min or an infusion of 0.2-0.4 mL/kg/h S5.3.2.4-34—S5.3.2.4-36
10% calcium gluconate3-6 g IV every 10-20 min or an infusion at 0.6-1.2 mL/kg/h S5.3.2.4-34—S5.3.2.4-36
Beta-blocker or calcium channel blocker overdose
Glucagon3-10 mg IV with infusion of 3-5 mg/h S5.3.2.4-37,S5.3.2.4-38
High dose insulin therapyIV bolus of 1 unit/kg followed by an infusion of 0.5 units/kg/hS5.3.2.4-36,S5.3.2.4-39,S5.3.2.4-40Follow glucose and potassium levels
Digoxin overdose
Digoxin antibody fragmentDosage is dependent on amount ingested or known digoxin concentration S5.3.2.4-41—S5.3.2.4-48- One vial binds approximately 0.5 mg of digoxin
- Administer over at least 30 min
- May be repeated
Post-heart transplant
Aminophylline6 mg/kg in 100-200 mL of IVfuid over 20-30 min
Theophylline300 mg IV, followed by oral dose of- Therapeutic serum levels range from
5-10 mg/kg/d titrated to effect10-20 mcg/mL
- Usual posttransplant dosages average
450 mg6100 mg/d
Spinal cord injury
Aminophylline6 mg/kg in 100-200 mL of IVfuid over 20-30 minS5.3.2.4-7
TheophyllineOral dose of 5-10 mg/kg/d titrated to effectS5.3.2.4-6Effective dosages often result in serum levels below the usual effective range
of 10-20 mcg/mL

IV 5 intravenous; MI 5 myocardial infarction.

dosage for advanced cardiac life support is 2 to 10 mcg/min with titration to hemodynamic response.[S5.3.2.1-13]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In patients with sinus bradycardia, atropine at dosages of 0.5 to 2 mg usually enhances automaticity, but in rare cases can be associated with intra-atrial reentry and or sinus pauses.[S5.3.2.1-21] The sinoatrial node response to atropine is bimodal, lower doses (usually,0.5 mg) are associated with slower rates and acceleration with higher doses.[S5.3.2.1-15,S5.3.2.1-22,S5.3.2.1-23] One clinical trial,[S5.3.2.1-1] a post hoc analysis of MI patients,[S5.3.2.1-3] and 2 observational studies[S5.3.2.1-2,S5.3.2.1-4] have reported efficacy of atropine in the treatment of bradycardia. In patients with hemodynamically unstable sinus bradycardia and atrioventricular block, atropine
  • has demonstrated some benefit and minimal risk of worsening bradycardia, ischemia or potentiating ventricular fibrillation.[S5.3.2.1-1][—][S5.3.2.1-4] In an RCT of men undergoing elective laparoscopic prostate surgery, atropine effectively treated anesthetic induced sinus bradycardia.[S5.3.2.1-24]
  1. There are numerous case reports and series describing the salutary use of isoproterenol in patients presenting with sinus bradycardia[S5.3.2.1-5,S5.3.2.1-6,S5.3.2.1-9]; however, there are no clinical trials or observational series data to support or discourage its use in this setting. Because isoproterenol increases myocardial oxygen demand through beta-1 effects while decreasing coronary perfusion attributable to beta-2 effects, it is best avoided in settings where there is concern for coronary ischemia.[S5.3.2.] 1-25,S5.3.2.1-26 From a clinical standpoint, it is

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e155

predominantly used in the electrophysiology laboratory (1-20 mcg/min intravenously) and has only a secondline role in treatment of bradycardia in the setting of resuscitation.[S5.3.2.1-27] Two RCTs of isoproterenol as adjunctive therapy in the setting of cardiac arrest did not show improved return of spontaneous circulation or survival to hospital discharge.[S5.3.2.1-28,S5.3.2.1-29] A trial of 82 patients presenting with unstable bradycardia refractory to intravenous fluid bolus and atropine randomized to transcutaneous pacing or dopamine at doses of 5 mcg/ kg/min, titrated every 2 minutes by 5 mcg/kg/min to a maximum of 20 mcg/kg/min, showed no difference in

  • survival to hospital discharge or serious adverse events.[S5.3.2.1-11]
  1. In a study of 25 patients who had undergone heart transplant, atropine at standard clinical doses resulted in paradoxical heart block or less commonly sinus arrest in 20%.[S5.3.2.1-12] Although sympathetic reinnervation can be observed after long-term follow-up after orthotopic heart transplant, evidence for parasympathetic reinnervation is far less common: 34% versus 11% in 1 series that used heart rate variability response to neck suction to test autonomic responses.[S5.3.2.1-30]

5.3.2.2. Therapy of Beta Blocker and Calcium Channel Blocker Mediated Bradycardia Attributable to SND or Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for Therapy of Beta Blocker and Calcium Channel Blocker Mediated Bradycardia Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 12.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaC-LD1. In patients with bradycardia associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise because of calcium
channel blocker overdose, intravenous calcium is reasonable to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S5.3.2.2-1—S5.3.2.2-3
IIaC-LD2. In patients with bradycardia associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise because of beta-blocker
or calcium channel blocker overdose, glucagon is reasonable to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S5.3.2.2-4,S5.3.2.2-5
IIaC-LD3. In patients with bradycardia associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise because of beta-blocker
or calcium channel blocker overdose, high-dose insulin therapy is reasonable to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S5.3.2.2-6,S5.3.2.2-7

Synopsis

Cardiovascular effects of beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker toxicity are systemic and can be fatal because of profound negative chronotropic and inotropic effects, as well as vasodilation.[S5.3.2.2-8] Pharmacotherapy is supportive and directed toward improving hemodynamic stability.[S5.3.2.2-8] Shock often requires adrenergic pressor support S5.3.2.2-3,S5.3.2.2-6—S5.3.2.2-9 The evidence base and specific treatment considerations for beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker mediated bradycardia are the same for SND and atrioventricular block (Table 8).

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Case reports and small series show variable results in response to calcium infusion in the treatment of calcium channel blocker overdose, and no randomized trial data are available to support its use.[S5.3.2.2-1,S5.3.2.] 2-10—S5.3.2.2-12 Because of improvements in heart rate and blood pressure, coupled with low risk of adverse effects, intravenous calcium is often recommended as a first-line therapy if central or reliable peripheral venous access is present.[S5.3.2.2-2,S5.3.2.2-13] A systematic review
  • of treatment for calcium channel blocker poisoning not specific to SND found 7 animal studies demonstrating reduced mortality and hemodynamic improvement with intravenous calcium.[S5.3.2.2-3] Hemodynamic benefits in humans were less consistent in 11 case series and 21 case reports, but adverse effects, primarily hypercalcemia, were rare.[S5.3.2.2-3] Both calcium chloride and calcium gluconate (to minimize peripheral vein irritation) are commonly used.[S5.3.2.2-3,S5.3.2.2-13]
  1. Glucagonisavasoactivepolypeptide,whichcounteractsthe effects of beta blockers by activation of hepatic adenyl cyclase that promotes glycogenesis.[S5.3.2.2-14] Although scores of case reports and case series (the largest comprised of 9 patients[S5.3.2.2-5]) have been published showing increased heart rate in settings of beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker overdose, no clinical trials have been performed.[S5.3.2.2-4] The standard therapy in cardiac arrest is a bolus of 3 to 10 mg given over 3 to 5 minutes. Because effects are transient, an infusion of 3 to 5 mg/h is also initiated.[S5.3.2.2-9] Side effects of glucagon therapy include nausea and vomiting, which is of particular concern when ability to protect the airway is compromised.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e156

  1. High-dose insulin therapy, using a bolus of 1 unit/kg followed by an infusion of 0.5 units/kg/h, has been studied in patients with severe beta-blocker or calcium channel blocker toxicity.[S5.3.2.2-3,S5.3.2.2-6,S5.3.2.2-15] High-dose insulin therapy is associated with improved heart rate, hemodynamic parameters, and mortality in

beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker overdose.[S5.3.2.2-3,S5.3.2.2-6,S5.3.2.2-15] The evidence base is of lower quality, consisting largely of animal studies and case reports and case series.[S5.3.2.2-3] Side effects include hypoglycemia and hypokalemia, which are usually mild.[S5.3.2.2-6,S5.3.2.2-15]

5.3.2.3. Therapy of Digoxin Mediated Bradycardia Attributable to either SND or Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for Therapy of Digoxin Mediated Bradycardia Attributable to SND or Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 13, 14, and 15.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaC-LD1. In patients with bradycardia associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise in the
setting of digoxin toxicity, digoxin Fab antibody fragment is reasonable to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S5.3.2.3-1—S5.3.2.3-8
III: No BeneftC-LD2. In patients with bradycardia associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise attributable to digoxin toxicity, dialysis is not recommended for removal of digoxin.S5.3.2.3-9

Synopsis

Digoxin-specific antibody (Fab) is a monovalent immunoglobulin that rapidly binds to intravascular digoxin.[S5.3.2.3-2] Each vial of 40 mg of digoxin Fab binds approximately 0.5 mg of digoxin, and dosage is usually dependent on the estimated amount of the digitalis preparation ingested. Repeat dosing may be necessary, particularly in the setting of chronic use attributable to the large volume of distribution. Clinical response rates to digoxin Fab are as high as 80% to 90%, particularly in the acute setting.[S5.3.2.3-2] Patients with hyperkalemia or arrhythmias in the setting of digoxin serum levels of.2 mcg/L are at increased risk of death.[S5.3.2.3-10] Signs and symptoms of toxicity can manifest at lower serum levels. Adverse events attributable to digoxin Fab therapy are rare and usually clinically insignificant; potassium levels should be monitored. Use of any treatment directed specifically to digoxin toxicity will depend primarily on the presence or likelihood of developing significant toxicity (Table 8). The evidence base and specific treatment considerations for digoxin mediated bradycardia are the same for SND and atrioventricular block.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. There are no RCTs of anti-digoxin Fab for treatment of digitalis overdose, but an RCT in patients with poisoning attributable to yellow oleander, a cardiac glycoside with similar clinical toxicity, showed rapid reversal of bradycardia.[S5.3.2.3-11] A systematic review of the use of antidigoxin Fab in digitalis toxicity found 10 observational series including a total 2,080 patients.[S5.3.2.3-2] Studies reported a clinical response of improvement to reversal of symptoms in 50% to 90% of patients within 30 to 45 minutes.[S5.3.2.3-2] Adverse effects of therapy, including heart failure, tachycardia, hypokalemia, and allergic reactions occurred in,10% of patients.[S5.3.2.3-2] Clinical benefit is therefore clear in patients with life-threatening symptoms, but benefit is less certain in cases of mild toxicity.

  2. A systematic review of 77 in vitro, animal, and human case reports and series comprising 84 patients found that digoxin is only slightly dialyzable,[S5.3.2.3-9,S5.3.2.3-12] and dialysis is unlikely to improve the outcome of patients with digoxin toxicity.[S5.3.2.3-9] Hemodialysis may be considered for treatment of associated life-threatening hyperkalemia.[S5.3.2.3-13]

5.3.2.4. Aminophylline or Theophylline for Bradycardia Attributable to SND

Recommendations for Theophylline/Aminophylline for Bradycardia Attributable to SND Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 16 and 17.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaC-LD1. In post-heart transplant patients, aminophylline or theophylline is reasonable to increase heart rate if clinically indicated.S5.3.2.4-1—S5.3.2.4-4
IIaC-LD2. In patients with SND associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise in the setting of acute
spinal cord injury, aminophylline or theophylline is reasonable to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S5.3.2.4-5—S5.3.2.4-7

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e157

Synopsis

The methylxanthines theophylline and aminophylline (a theophylline derivative) exert positive chronotropic effects on the heart, likely mediated by inhibition of the suppressive effects of adenosine on the sinoatrial node.[S5.3.2.4-8,][S5.3.2.4-9] There is no direct evidence supporting the gross effects of aminophylline or theophylline in the setting of acute SND, in the absence of spinal cord injury or post-heart transplantation. However, a Cochrane systematic review of 5 randomized trials evaluating the use of aminophylline in the setting of out of hospital asystolic or bradycardic arrest did not show improved survival or return of spontaneous circulation.[S5.3.2.4-10] Refer to Table 8.

Sinus bradycardia attributable to autonomic denervation, surgical trauma, ischemia, rejection, and prior amiodarone use is common after heart transplant.[S5.3.2.4-11][—][S5.3.2.4-13] In contrast to normal heart rate values, bradycardia in heart transplant recipients are sometimes defined as a heart rate persistently,70 or 80 bpm.[S5.3.2.4-13] Because of an acute reduction in sympathetic tone, severe sinus bradycardia is common in the acute recovery phase after spinal cord injury; both incidence and severity of bradyarrhythmias are related to the level and severity of spinal cord injury.[S5.3.2.4-14] Cardiac arrest, most often attributable to sinus arrest and asystole, during the first 2 to 4 weeks after injury was observed in 16% of patients with severe cervical spinal injury.[S5.3.2.4-15]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Sinus bradycardia is common after heart transplant, and sinus rates of,70 to 80 bpm may be inadequate for postoperative demand. Chronotropic incompetence usually improves in the early postoperative period but can be clinically significant and require therapy in a few patients. Atropineisineffectivefortreatmentofpost-hearttransplantSND because of denervation.[S5.3.2.4-16][—][S5.3.2.4-18] The use of terbutaline to treat sinus bradycardia after heart transplant has also been described, but data are more limited. Four small observational studies have shown improved heart rate and sinus node function after transplant using the methylxanthines aminophylline or theophylline. In 2 studies of 15 and 29 patients, oral theophylline was associated with restoration of a sinus rate of 90 bpm, and 1 study showed a reduction in PPM implantation compared with historical controls.[S5.3.2.4-2,S5.3.2.4-4] The evidence for aminophylline is more limited; in invasive

EPS, aminophylline infusion had variable effects on sinus node function and heart rate in heart transplant recipients.[S5.3.2.4-1,S5.3.2.4-3]

  1. Sinus bradycardia requiring medical therapy is a common complication of spinal cord injury and can be persistent and refractory to atropine and other adrenergic drugs. Although an inciting cause is not always noted, common triggers for bradycardia episodes are tracheal suctioning and turning the patient.[S5.3.2.4-14,S5.3.2.4-19] Although atropine and inotropes are often used to treat bradycardia and hypotension caused by autonomic dysreflexia, these drugs are not always effective. Because the primary heart rate abnormality is attributable to unopposed parasympathetic stimulation, adenosine receptor blockade by theophylline or aminophylline target the underlying pathology and has been shown to be effective in case series. Although data regarding the use of methylxanthines in this clinical condition is limited, 3 case series of 2 to 6 patients have shown beneficial effects on heart rate and avoidance of PPM implantation.[S5.3.2.] 4-5—S5.3.2.4-7 Treatment usually can be withdrawn after 4 to 6 weeks, and side effects or adverse events are rare.[S5.3.] 2.4-14,S5.3.2.4-19 Temporary pacing is another potential approach for treating hemodynamically significant sinus bradycardia associated with spinal cord injury.

5.3.3. Temporary Pacing for Bradycardia Attributable to SND Temporary pacing is used to acutely treat bradycardia causing hemodynamically significant instability, such as prolonged and symptomatic pauses, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias mediated by bradycardia, or severe symptomatic bradycardia attributable to a reversible cause with the goal to avoid PPM implantation. Temporary pacing can be implemented transcutaneously,[S5.3.3-1] via a transesophageal approach[S5.3.3-2,S5.3.3-3] or by insertion of a transvenous pacing electrode[S5.3.3-4] or pulmonary-arterial pacing catheter.[S5.3.3-5] Emergency temporary pacing for treating bradycardia associated with hemodynamic instability generally involves pacing the right ventricle (RV) because of ease of access from the venous system and rate support whether bradycardia is attributable to SND or atrioventricular block. In rare cases, temporary pacing of the right atrium (alone or in conjunction with ventricular pacing) is used when maintenance of atrioventricular synchrony is critical.

Recommendations for Temporary Pacing for Bradycardia Attributable to SND Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 18, 19, 20, and 21.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaC-LD1. In patients with persistent hemodynamically unstable SND refractory to medical therapy, temporary
transvenous pacing is reasonable to increase heart rate and improve symptoms until a PPM is placed or the bradycardia resolves.S5.3.3-3—S5.3.3-17
IIbC-LD2. In patients with SND with severe symptoms or hemodynamic compromise, temporary transcutaneous pacing
may be considered to increase heart rate and improve symptoms until a temporary transvenous or PPM is placed or the bradycardia resolves.S5.3.3-1,S5.3.3-18—S5.3.3-22
III: HarmC-LD3. In patients with SND with minimal and/or infrequent symptoms without hemodynamic compromise, temporary transcutaneous or transvenous pacing should not be performed.S5.3.3-4,S5.3.3-6,S5.3.3-7,S5.3.3-12,S5.3. 3-14—S5.3.3-16,S5.3.3-23

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e158

Synopsis

Indications for temporary transvenous pacing are similar to indications for permanent pacing.[S5.3.3-24] The use of temporary transvenous pacing for SND is uncommon, because the risk of acute adverse cardiovascular events attributable to SND is low, and temporary pacing is associated with complications. Typically, temporary transvenous pacing is performed via a pacing wire placed in the RV from a central venous access site. Reported adverse event rates associated with temporary transvenous pacing range from 14% to 40%.[S5.3.3-10,S5.3.3-25] Complications include venous thrombosis (18%–85% in the femoral setting when the femoral vein is used as the access), pulmonary emboli (50%–60% with femoral approach), life-threatening arrhythmias (usually related to instability or position in the RV), loss of capture (10%–37%), perforation, and death, but these associations may be confounded by use of temporary transvenous pacing in critically ill patients.[S5.3.3-5,S5.3.] 3-15,S5.3.3-25—S5.3.3-27 Reported complications may be lower using balloon flotation electrode catheters[S5.3.3-5] or fluoroscopy. The risk of infectious complications in PPM placement is increased in patients who have a temporary pacing wire before permanent implant.[S5.3.3-28,S5.3.3-29] Figure 5 provides an algorithm for choosing specific pacing strategy once temporary pacing is thought to be clinically necessary.

----- Start of picture text ----- Hemodynamic instability despite medical therapy Critically ill due to bradycardia Yes No Permanent Transcutaneous pacemaker indicated and pacing (Class IIb) capability immediately available Yes No Implant Permanent Prolonged pacemaker*† temporary pacing needed Yes No Externalized Temporary permanent transvenous pacing lead pacing wire (Class IIa) (Class IIa) ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 5 Acute Pacing Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. See Sections 5.4. and 6.3. for discussion. *Refer to Section 5.4.4.1., Figure 6, for chronic SND and Section 6.4., Figure 7, for chronic atrioventricular block.[†] Careful management of anesthesia to avoid or minimize the use of drugs associated with bradycardia is required.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. There are no RCTs or observational studies specific to the use of temporary transvenous pacing to treat SND, but several case series[S5.3.3-4,S5.3.3-6,S5.3.3-7,S5.3.3-10,S5.3.3-12,S5.] 3.3-14,S5.3.3-15,S5.3.3-17,S5.3.3-23 and 2 RCTsS5.3.3-3,S5.3.3-5,
  • S5.3.3-27 include patients with SND. Overall, temporary transvenous pacing was effective, yet associated with complication rates that range from 14% to 40%.[S5.3.3-10,] S5.3.3-25
  1. Although transcutaneous pacing has not shown a benefit in patients with cardiac arrest caused by asystole,[S5.3.3-30] studies that included patients with SND without cardiac arrest have shown effective pacing with increases in heart rate and blood pressure, and tolerable patient tolerance.[S5.3.3-1,S5.3.3-18][—][S5.3.3-20,S5.3.3-22] A systematic review of 3 unblinded RCTs, 3 case series, and 1 subgroup analysis showed a borderline improvement in survival to discharge in nonasystolic
  • patients with symptomatic bradycardia.[S5.3.3-21] Analgesic and/or anxiolytic agents should be considered in conscious patients, and effective capture assessed must be assessed by pulse or arterial waveform acquired by noninvasive or invasive means. Preparation for transcutaneous pacing (placing pads on a patient) may be considered for the patient who is at risk for developing bradycardia. This strategy has shown to be effective in the perioperative setting for rapid treatment of bradycardia.[S5.3.3-31]
  1. Because temporary transvenous pacing is associated with a high risk of complications in older studies,[S5.3.3-5,S5.3.]
  • 3-10,S5.3.3-15,S5.3.3-25—S5.3.3-29 and although the risks are

likely lower with contemporary techniques, the benefits of temporary transvenous pacing do not appear to outweigh the risks in mildly to moderately symptomatic patients particularly if episodes of SND are intermittent and not associated with hemodynamic compromise.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e159

5.4. Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

5.4.1. General Principles of Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

Recommendations for General Principles of Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 22 and 23.

CORLOERecommendations
III: HarmC-LD1. In asymptomatic individuals with sinus bradycardia or sinus pauses that are secondary to
physiologically elevated parasympathetic tone, permanent pacing should not be performed.S5.4.1-1—S5.4.1-7
III: HarmC-LD2. In patients with sleep-related sinus bradycardia or transient sinus pauses occurring during
sleep, permanent pacing should not be performed unless other indications for pacing are present.S5.4.1-1—S5.4.1-7
III: HarmC-LD3. In patients with asymptomatic SND, or in those in whom the symptoms have been documented to
occur in the absence of bradycardia or chronotropic incompetence, permanent pacing should not be performed.S5.4.1-5—S5.4.1-7

Synopsis

The goal of anti-bradycardia therapy in SND is to increase the heart rate so that cardiac output is normalized, and the perfusion of brain and other end organs is maintained to meet physiologic demand. Because there is no established minimum heart rate below which treatment is indicated, identifying temporal correlation between symptoms and bradycardia is important when deciding on the necessity of therapy. Healthy young individuals, particularly athletes, have sinus bradycardia that is not associated with symptoms.[S5.4.1-8] In some patients presenting with symptomatic bradycardia, a reversible extrinsic cause may be identifiable such as metabolic abnormality, endocrine dysfunction, infection, or overmedication (discussed in Section 5.4.2.). For other patients with symptomatic sinus bradycardia attributable to an intrinsic pathology of sinus node, permanent pacing may be necessary. Complications associated with PPM implantation range from 3% to 7% and there are significant long-term implications for pacing systems that use transvenous leads.[S5.4.1-5][—][S5.4.1-7]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Young individuals, especially well-conditioned athletes, have dominant parasympathetic tone at rest associated with resting sinus rates that can be well below 40 bpm.[S5.4.1-1][—][S5.4.1-4] Sinus bradycardia is also seen in other states of heightened vagal tone such as during sleep or deep rest. In almost all cases, patients are completely asymptomatic and anti-bradycardia therapy is not indicated and the patient should be reassured. Although PPM implantation is a relatively low-risk cardiac procedure, procedural complications and death directly related to implant can occur, and implanted leads have long-term management implications.[S5.4.1-5][—][S5.4.1-7,] S5.4.1-9

  2. Parasympathetic tone is more dominant sympathetic tone during rest and sleep. Significant sinus bradycardia

(rates,40 bpm) or pauses (.5 seconds) are common during such periods and have been observed across a wide age range.[S5.4.1-1][—][S5.4.1-4] High vagal tone can also affect the atrioventricular node and cause transient and varying degrees of conduction abnormality that is asymptomatic in nearly all cases. Clinically relevant scenarios are often encountered in hospital settings where patients are monitored continuously on telemetry or at home with the rise of wearable home monitoring systems. Nocturnal sinus bradycardia or pause is a relatively common phenomenon in such settings. With the understanding of the physiologic (not pathologic) basis of bradycardia in such circumstances, anti-bradycardia therapy can be avoided. Although PPM implantation is a relatively low risk cardiac procedure, procedural complications and death directly related to implant can occur, and implanted leads have long-term management implications.[S5.4.1-5][—][S5.4.1-7,S5.4.1-9]

  1. SND commonly manifests as sinus bradycardia or recurrent sinus pauses. Because SND is not a life-threatening condition, the benefit of permanent cardiac pacing is essentially symptom relief and quality of life (QOL) improvement. For this reason, asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic patients have no indication for permanent pacing even if they were to have electrophysiologic evidence of SND (e.g., detected on ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring or at EPS) because permanent pacing is associated with surgical risk and long-term consequences.[S5.4.1-7] In some patients, symptoms suggestive of bradycardia are documented to occur in the absence of bradycardia. In these patients, permanent pacing has no clinical benefit and should not be performed. Although PPM implantation is a relatively low risk cardiac procedure, procedural complications and death directly related to implant can occur, and implanted leads have long-term management implications.[S5.4.1-5][—][S5.4.1-7,S5.4.1-9]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e160

5.4.2. Transient/Reversible Causes (Including Medications) of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

Recommendation for Transient/Reversible Causes of Sinus Bradycardia

CORLOERecommendation
IC-EO1. Patients presenting with symptomatic SND secondary to a reversible cause shouldfrst be managed by
directing the therapy at eliminating or mitigating the offending condition.

Synopsis

Patients may present with symptomatic sinus bradycardia attributable to reversible causes (Table 7).[S5.4.2-1] Medications are frequent culprits. Negative chronotropic drugs such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and digoxin are frequently prescribed drugs that can decrease the sinus rate. Sodium-channel and potassium-channel blocking antiarrhythmic drugs can also exacerbate bradycardia in patients with preexisting SND. Hypothyroidism can cause clinically significant bradycardia.[S5.4.2-2][—][S5.4.2-5] Such cardiovascular abnormalities respond well to replacement therapy with thyroxine (T4).[S5.4.2-6] Metabolic abnormalities such as severe systemic acidosis or hypokalemia can uncommonly cause sinus bradycardia in acute settings. Reversible physiological disturbances should be considered and treated first.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. When sinus bradycardia is the consequence of nonessential medications, permanent cardiac pacing should not be considered a first-line treatment. In such cases, withdrawal of offending drug or dosage reduction can improve the heart rate and symptoms. For example, a beta-blocking drug that is used solely to control hypertension but is causing significant bradycardia could be switched to a diuretic, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, or an angiotensin receptor blocking drug that are devoid of negative chronotropic effect. If the offending drug cannot be discontinued completely, a simple dosage reduction may increase the heart rate and therefore improve symptoms. Other treatable conditions predisposing to sinus bradycardia include elevated intracranial pressure, acute MI, severe hypothermia, and obstructive sleep apnea.

5.4.3. Additional Testing of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

Recommendations for Additional Testing of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

CORLOERecommendations
IIbC-EO1. In patients with symptoms suggestive of bradycardia (e.g., syncope, lightheadedness) who are also
undergoing an EPS for another indication, evaluation of sinus node function as part of the EPS may
be considered.
IIbC-EO2. In symptomatic patients with suspected SND, EPS for the assessment of sinus node function
may be considered when the diagnosis remains uncertain after initial noninvasive evaluations.S5.4.3-1—S5.4.3-5
III: No BeneftC-LD3. In patients with asymptomatic sinus bradycardia, an EPS should not be performed unless other indications for electrophysiological testing exist.S5.4.3-6,S5.4.3-7

Synopsis

SND is a clinical diagnosis based on the combination of history and rhythm documentation. However, in very rare circumstances, when the diagnosis remains elusive, the clinician may elect to perform an invasive EPS to ascertain the diagnosis. Broadly speaking, there are 2 established electrophysiology measures of sinus node function: 1) sinus node recovery time (SNRT)[S5.4.3-4] and 2) SACT.[S5.4.3-3,S5.4.3-5] These values can contribute to the assessment of sinus node function. Pharmacologic blockade of the autonomic nervous system using intravenous propranolol (0.1 mg/kg) and atropine (0.02 mg/kg) can be performed before assessment of sinus node function. The measured intrinsic heart rate can then be compared with the calculated

intrinsic heart rate (intrinsic heart rate: 118.1 – (0.57 x age)) for assessment of SND.[S5.4.3-1,S5.4.3-2] Both SNRT and SACT are limited by variable and modest specificity and sensitivity. EPS for the assessment of sinus node function is currently not widely used in clinical practice and its precise role in the overall diagnostic strategy of SND is not well defined, and there are no data to suggest that an abnormal SNRT or SACT in isolation should be used to justify PPM implantation.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. It would be rare that EPS would be performed for the sole purpose of evaluating sinus node function. Most patients

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e161

  • undergo diagnostic EPS for a different indication or reason such as evaluation of inducibility of ventricular arrhythmia or presence of His-Purkinje conduction abnormality often in the setting of syncope or nonsustained ventricular tachycardia with reduced left ventricular function.[S5.4.3-8,S5.4.3-9] In such cases, sinus node function could be evaluated at little to no added risk to the patient and can provide adjunctive information in patients with symptoms suggestive of bradycardia.
  1. Patients with suspected SND sometimes do not have a definitive diagnosis even after undergoing a battery of initial noninvasive tests. EPS can be considered in such cases to help support or refute the diagnosis of SND, and the findings can be used to guide the therapy, provided that the data are used in conjunction with other clinical findings. The most well-known method to assess sinus node function is the measurement of SNRT. In brief, the atrium is paced using a properly positioned catheter at a predetermined rate for a given duration (30-60 s) of time.
  • The interval to the first spontaneous atrial depolarization from the last paced beat is measured after the pacing is stopped. Corrected SNRT is an indexed value obtained by subtracting the baseline R-R interval from the longest obtained SNRT. An abnormal corrected SNRT is considered to be any value.500 to 550 ms.[S5.4.3-4] The SACT is less commonly used but can be calculated by either continuous pacing at different intervals, with premature atrial stimuli, or direct recording of sinus node electrograms.[S5.4.3-10]
  1. Asymptomatic patients with sinus bradycardia should not undergo EPS because the risk of invasive testing outweighs the potential for clinical benefit. Although risk of EPS is likely low in the modern era, an older study reported a complication rate of 8%, mainly hematoma and induction of AF.[S5.4.3-6] In an asymptomatic patient, an incidental finding of abnormal SNRT or SACT has no clinical importance.[S5.4.3-7]

5.4.4. Permanent Pacing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

Recommendations for Permanent Pacing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 24 and 25.

CORLOERecommendations
IC-LD1. In patients with symptoms that are directly attributable to SND, permanent pacing is indicated to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S5.4.4-1,S5.4.4-2
IC-EO2. In patients who develop symptomatic sinus bradycardia as a consequence of guideline-directed management
and therapy for which there is no alternative treatment and continued treatment is clinically necessary,
permanent pacing is recommended to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.
IIaC-EO3. For patients with tachy-brady syndrome and symptoms attributable to bradycardia, permanent pacing is
reasonable to increase heart rate and reduce symptoms attributable to hypoperfusion.
IIaC-EO4. In patients with symptomatic chronotropic incompetence, permanent pacing with rate-responsive
programming is reasonable to increase exertional heart rates and improve symptoms.
IIbC-LD5. In patients with symptoms that are likely attributable to SND, a trial of oral theophylline may be considered
to increase heart rate, improve symptoms, and help determine the potential effects of permanent pacing.S5.4.4-3,S5.4.4-4

Synopsis

Permanent cardiac pacing is indicated to alleviate the symptoms of cerebral hypoperfusion attributable to bradycardia when other potential treatable or reversible etiologies have been excluded. Symptomatic SND is the most common indication for permanent pacing, followed closely by atrioventricular block. Often the best response to pacing therapy is demonstrated when an unequivocal correlation has been established between symptoms and bradycardia. The benefit of pacing in SND is mainly QOL improvement. A strategy for managing a patient with SND is provided in Figure 6.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. When there is direct evidence of symptom correlating with sinus bradycardia or pauses, permanent cardiac pacing will lead to clinical improvement. Such a temporal

symptom-bradycardia correlation is regarded as the gold standard of diagnosis and confers the highest likelihood of response to therapy. Prolonged sinus pauses can also be debilitating and are associated with significant morbidity because of recurrent presyncope or syncope of sudden and unpredictable onset. Permanent cardiac pacing will also treat such symptomatic pauses.[S5.4.4-1,] S5.4.4-2

  1. Beta-blocking and calcium channel–blocking drugs are commonly used in patients with cardiovascular disorders. Negative chronotropic drugs exacerbate SND symptoms by diminishing the slope of phase 4 diastolic depolarization, resulting in a decrease in the rate of sinus node discharge. Beta blockers have a wide range of guidelinedirected indications for patients after MI and for patients with chronic systolic heart failure.[S5.4.4-5][—][S5.4.4-7]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e162

For patients who also have symptomatic sinus bradycardia some should be managed with permanent cardiac pacing so that essential pharmacologic therapy can be continued while, in others, stopping or decreasing the dose of the offending drug may be appropriate. In all cases, the relative benefits and risks of all therapies must be considered collectively for each individual patient.[S5.4.4-5][—][S5.4.4-7]

  1. Tachy-brady syndrome describes a subset of symptomatic SND who have periods of fast heart rates (usually AF) and slow sinus rates or pauses. One of the most disabling symptoms of tachy-brady syndrome is recurrent syncope or presyncope secondary to transient asystolic pause that follows termination of paroxysmal episodes of atrial tachyarrhythmia (typically AF).[S5.4.4-8] The severity of symptoms is often related to the length of pause. The pathophysiologic link between SND and AF, however, remains incompletely understood, and is an active area of investigation.[S5.4.4-8] No randomized trial has specifically examined the use of permanent cardiac pacing in patients with tachy-brady syndrome. Permanent pacing can alleviate the symptoms attributable to bradycardia or allow use of medications directed toward treatment of atrial tachyarrhythmias that might exacerbate bradycardia such as beta blockers.[S5.4.] 4-9,S5.4.4-10 In those patients where bradycardia is associated with the atrial arrhythmia (AF with slow ventricular rates or post conversion pauses), treatment of atrial tachyarrhythmias with ablation may obviate the requirement for permanent pacing.[S5.4.4-11,S5.4.4-12]

  2. Chronotropic incompetence describes an inappropriately blunted heart rate response to physiologic need associated with physical activity but is difficult to define by simple age dependent formulas. The diagnosis is typically suggested by ambulatory heart rate monitoring (provided that symptom diaries are accurately kept), or exercise electrocardiographic testing. Cardiac pacing with sensor-based rate-responsive feature has been used to

  • increase the heart rate in times of sensed physical activity. There are different types of sensors that can track various physiologic parameters such as body motion and minute ventilation. One RCT, however, did not demonstrate any benefit in patients with SND.[S5.4.4-13] At 6 months follow-up, there was no difference in total exercise time between the dual-chamber paced group and the dualchamber paced group with additional rate adaption algorithms programmed “on.” group. At one-year follow-up, there were no significant differences between 2 groups with respect to Specific Activity Scale or the secondary QOL endpoints. However, given that the overall right ventricular pacing percentage was.90% in this trial, any potential symptomatic benefit of rate-responsive feature could have been offset by the deleterious effect of high-percentage RV pacing with consequent dyssynchrony. Other nonrandomized studies have also shown variable clinical benefits from sensor-based rate responsive features.[S5.4.4-14,S5.4.4-15] When used, careful programming of rate-responsive features is necessary.
  1. Direct attribution of symptoms to SND should always be sought but can be difficult in some situations. A trial of oral theophylline may be considered to help correlate symptoms with bradycardia. In a randomized study of patients with symptomatic SND randomized to no treatment, oral theophylline, or permanent pacing, theophylline was associated with increased resting heart rate compared with control, although permanent pacing was superior for symptom control.[S5.4.4-3] Similarly, in a nonrandomized case series of patients with SND, theophylline (200-400 mg daily) decreased the frequency of sinus pauses and improved subjective symptoms in 16 of 17 patients.[S5.4.4-4] In patients who are unwilling to undergo PPM implantation or who are not candidates for permanent pacing, oral theophylline could be considered for treatment of symptomatic SND.

5.4.4.1. Permanent Pacing Techniques and Methods for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

Recommendations for Permanent Pacing Techniques and Methods for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 25.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-R1. In symptomatic patients with SND, atrial-based pacing is recommended over single chamber ventricular pacing.S5.4.4.1-1—S5.4.4.1-4
IB-R2. In symptomatic patients with SND and intact atrioventricular conduction without evidence of conduction abnormalities, dual chamber or single chamber atrial pacing is recommended.S5.4.4.1-5
IIaB-R3. In symptomatic patients with SND who have dual chamber pacemakers and intact atrioventricular conduction, it is reasonable to program the dual chamber pacemaker to minimize ventricular pacing.S5.4.4.1-6
IIaC-EO4. In symptomatic patients with SND in which frequent ventricular pacing is not expected or the patient has
signifcant comorbidities that are otherwise likely to determine the survival and clinical outcomes, single
chamber ventricular pacing is reasonable.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e163

Synopsis

One area of particular interest in the past has been the investigation of optimal pacing mode in SND. Atrial-based pacing modes (AAI and DDD) have been compared with ventricular-based pacing mode (VVI) in 4 major RCTs and reviewed in a recent expert consensus document.[S5.4.4.] 1-1—S5.4.4.1-4,S5.4.4.1-7 Results were inconsistent across the studies and the reconciliation of findings can be challenging. However, atrial-based pacing modes appeared to confer advantage over ventricular-based pacing mode with respect to a lower incidence of AF. The impact of atrial-based pacing modes on the prevention of heart failure or stroke, and improvement in QOL is less clear.[S5.4.4.1-8]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Four trials compared the efficacy of AAI or DDD (collectively known as atrial based) versus VVI (single chamber ventricular) pacing with respect to clinical outcome such as new-onset AF, heart failure hospitalization, stroke incidence, QOL and mortality.[S5.4.4.1-1][—][S5.4.4.1-5] Although the trials were very different with respect to study design, outcome definition, and duration of follow-up, as well as having significant inter-group crossover rates, the most consistent clinical benefit of dual chamber pacing over single chamber ventricular pacing was reduction in incidence of AF. In addition, single

----- Start of picture text ----- Sinus node dysfunction Confirm symptoms Rule out reversible causes Due to required GDMT (no reasonable alternative) Symptoms No correlate with bradycardia Yes Yes No (or asymptomatic) Likely/uncertain Observation Permanent pacing Oral theophylline Permanent pacing (Class I) (Class IIb) (Class III: Harm) Response *Infrequent suggests symptomatic pacing? Significant sinus node comorbidities? dysfunction? No Yes No Yes Single chamber Willing to ventricular pacing have a PPM? (Class IIa) Normal AV conduction Yes No and reason to avoid an RV Oral theophylline lead? (Class IIb) Yes No Single chamber Dual chamber pacing atrial pacing (Class I) (Class I) Program to minimize ventricular pacing (Class IIa) ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 6 Chronic SND Management Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. See Sections 4.3. and 5.4. for discussion. Dashed lines indicate possible optional strategies based on the specific clinical situation. *Symptomatic patients with very infrequent need for pacing for rate support or patients with significant comorbidities. AV 5 atrioventricular; GDMT 5 guideline-directed management and therapy; PPM 5 permanent pacemaker; RV 5 right ventricular.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e164

  • chamber ventricular pacing cannot provide atrioventricular synchrony. This can lead to pacemaker syndrome, which is characterized by uncoordinated depolarizations and contractions between atria and ventricles leading to valvular regurgitation and heart failure–type symptoms such as chronic fatigue, dyspnea on exertion, and symptomatic hypotension. Therefore, atrial based pacing is the preferred mode in symptomatic patients with SND.
  1. Superiority of atrial-based pacing (dual chamber or AAI) over single chamber ventricular pacing was demonstrated by 4 RCTs.[S5.4.4.1-1][—][S5.4.4.1-4] Another RCT[S5.4.4.1-5] subsequently compared the efficacy of dual chamber versus single chamber atrial pacing in symptomatic patients with SND. After a mean follow-up of 8.9 years, no difference in mortality or in any nonfatal clinical outcome (AF hospitalization, stroke, heart failure) was observed between the 2 groups. Dual chamber pacing requires implantation of an additional lead. Additional procedural risk must be carefully weighed against the likelihood of future development of atrioventricular block, which would mandate the placement of ventricular lead. The risk of developing atrioventricular block after pacemaker implantation within 5 years of follow-up has been demonstrated to be between 3% and 35%.[S5.4.4.1-9][—][S5.4.4.1-12] However, patients who have intact atrioventricular nodal conduction without any evidence of bundle branch conduction abnormality at baseline should be among the groups with lowest risk.[S5.4.4.1-5] In these patients, it is recommended that either a dual chamber or single chamber atrial PPM be implanted.

  2. In multiple studies, right ventricular pacing has been associated with negative physiologic consequences as a result of ventricular dyssynchrony: left ventricular chamber enlargement, worsening functional mitral regurgitation, reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and increased inter- and intraventricular dyssynchrony.[S5.4.4.1-13] In 1 study, a programming algorithm designed to minimize ventricular pacing resulted in a 40% risk reduction of persistent AF.[S5.4.4.1-6] In addition, among patients with SND and normal QRS duration, an increasing percentage of ventricular pacing was associated with a higher rate of systolic heart failure hospitalization and new onset of AF.[S5.4.4.1-14] For these reasons as well as other studies demonstrating similar and consistent findings, it is almost always appropriate to program the pacemaker to minimize unnecessary chronic right ventricular pacing whenever possible other than when accompanying severe first-degree atrioventricular block is associated with inappropriate timing of atrial and ventricular contraction.[S5.4.4.1-7]

  3. For patients with symptomatic SND that is short-lived or infrequent, single chamber ventricular pacing techniques (e.g., current leadless pacing technology) may be adequate for rate support and obviate the requirement for a second pacing lead. Patients with SND who are frail, bedridden, and/or those with limited functional capacity or unfavorable short-term prognosis for survival (,1 year) may not

necessarily have a better clinical outcome from strict maintenance of atrioventricular synchrony. Therefore, the benefit afforded by dual chamber pacing may not outweigh the incremental increase in risk. In such patients, a single chamber ventricular pacemaker could provide a more favorable risk-to-benefit profile compared with a dual chamber pacemaker that carries an incremental risk associated with the addition of a second pacing lead.

6. Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

6.1. Pathophysiology, Etiology, and Classification of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

There are numerous disease states that may affect the atrioventricular conduction system resulting in atrioventricular block (Table 9). These include both congenital and acquired forms. The latter are much more common and include infectious, inflammatory, degenerative, ischemic, and iatrogenic causes. Degenerative causes are the most commonly seen in clinical practice and are associated with increased age, chronic hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Infectious causes, particularly Lyme carditis, are important to consider in the appropriate patient, as atrioventricular block may be reversible with appropriate medical treatment. Ischemic etiologies should also be considered, because atrioventricular block attributable to inferior wall ischemia or MI may be reversible. Atrioventricular block caused by vagotonic influences is usually transient and generally does not require cardiac pacing. Iatrogenic causes are usually clear from the clinical circumstances.

Atrioventricular block may be classified anatomically by the site of block, usually divided into atrioventricular nodal, intra-Hisian (within the His bundle itself), and infra-Hisian (below the His bundle). The site of block may be clinically important and can be determined by invasive EPS when not apparent from the ECG and clinical circumstances. In general, atrioventricular block at the atrioventricular nodal level is associated with slower progression, a faster and more reliable atrioventricular junctional escape mechanism, and greater responsiveness to autonomic manipulation such as atropine, isoproterenol, and epinephrine administration. In contrast, atrioventricular block within or below the His bundle may progress rapidly and unexpectedly, is associated with a slower and more unpredictable ventricular escape mechanism, will not respond to atropine but will sometimes improve with catecholamines.

First-degree atrioventricular block is a misnomer; true block is not present, as each P wave is conducted, but with a prolonged PR interval.200 ms. Although for historical reasons, management of first-degree atrioventricular block is considered in the discussion of atrioventricular block, it is more accurately referred to as first-degree atrioventricular delay. Second-degree atrioventricular block is sub-classified

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e165

Table 9 Etiology of Atrioventricular Block

Congenital/genetic - Congenital AV block (associated with maternal systemic lupus erythematosus) - Congenital heart defects (e.g., L-TGA) - Genetic (e.g., SCN5A mutations) Infectious - Lyme carditis - Bacterial endocarditis with perivalvar abscess - Acute rheumatic fever - Chagas disease - Toxoplasmosis Inflammatory/infiltrative - Myocarditis - Amyloidosis - Cardiac sarcoidosis - Rheumatologic disease: Systemic sclerosis, SLE, RA, reactive arthritis (Reiter’s syndrome) - Other cardiomyopathy—idiopathic, valvular Ischemic - Acute MI - Coronary ischemia without infarction—unstable angina, variant angina - Chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy Degenerative - Lev’s and Lenegre’s diseases Vagotonic-associated with increased vagal tone - Sleep, obstructive sleep apnea - High-level athletic conditioning - Neurocardiogenic Metabolic/endocrine - Acid-base disorders - Poisoning/overdose (e.g., mercury, cyanide, carbon monoxide, mad honey) - Thyroid disease (both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism) - Adrenal disease (e.g., pheochromocytoma, hypoaldosteronism) Other diseases - Neuromuscular diseases (e.g., myotonic dystrophy, Kearns-Sayre syndrome, Erb’s dystrophy) - Lymphoma Iatrogenic - Medication related - Beta blockers, verapamil, diltiazem, digoxin - Antiarrhythmic drugs - Neutraceuticals - Catheter ablation - Cardiac surgery, especially valve surgery - TAVR, alcohol septal ablation

RA 5 rheumatoid arthritis; MI 5 myocardial infarction; SLE 5 systemic lupus erythematosus; TAVR 5 transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

into Mobitz I (Wenckebach conduction) and Mobitz II. Mobitz I block occurs after gradual PR prolongation and Mobitz II does not. The ECG will show group beating as a result of “dropped” QRS complexes. Atrioventricular block where only 2:1 block is present cannot be classified as Mobitz I or II, so it is important to elucidate the level of block. Highgrade, high-degree, or advanced atrioventricular block refers to situations where 2 consecutive P waves at a normal rate are not conducted without complete loss of atrioventricular conduction. High-degree atrioventricular block is generally considered to be intra- or infra-Hisian and treated with pacing. In unusual circumstances (at night, with accompanying sinus slowing) a vagal etiology may be considered especially when the QRS in narrow. Third-degree or complete atrioventricular block implies no conduction at all from atria to ventricles and may be paroxysmal or persistent and is usually associated with either a junctional or ventricular escape

mechanism. Complete atrioventricular block may be imputed in the setting of AF when the ventricular response is slow (,50 bpm) and regular, although junctional rhythm in the setting of atrioventricular conduction abnormalities may be associated with this electrocardiographic finding.

Careful evaluation of the ECG is required for the diagnosis of atrioventricular block. A 1:1 relationship between P waves and QRS complexes may not be present if the atrial rate and ventricular rates are similar (isorhythmic dissociation) or if the atrial rate is slower than the ventricular rate (sinus bradycardia coupled with an accelerated junctional rhythm without consistent retrograde ventriculoatrial conduction). In atrial bigeminy, a repetitive premature atrial contraction could be associated with normal conduction, atrioventricular delay, or blocked conduction; any of these scenarios could lead to an erroneous diagnosis of atrioventricular block.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e166

6.2. Clinical Presentation

Symptoms related to atrioventricular block vary and depend largely on the degree of atrioventricular block, the ventricular rate, and the frequency of its occurrence.[S6.2-1] Profound firstdegree atrioventricular block can lead to symptoms of fatigue or exertional intolerance if the PR interval is long enough to allow for loss of atrioventricular synchrony that results in a decrease in cardiac output and an increase pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (often called “pseudo pacemaker syndrome” and may occur with PR interval.300 ms).[S6.] 2-2—S6.2-4 Second-degree atrioventricular block type I (Wenckebach) is often asymptomatic and seen in active, healthy patients with no history of heart disease. However, if occurring frequently or during exercise, it can cause symptoms of exertional intolerance or dizziness. Patients who present with complaints of syncope and have a negative initial workup such as a negative physical examination, ECG, and echocardiogram are sometimes found to have intermittent episodes of atrioventricular block with long-term monitoring.[S6.] 2-5—S6.2-7 Intermittent complete atrioventricular block causing syncope or presyncope is more typically seen in patients with underlying heart disease or an underlying bundle branch block at baseline but can also be seen in patients with no baseline heart disease or evident conduction abnormalities. One study found that 8% of syncope patients with a normal ECG and echocardiogram had paroxysmal idiopathic atrioventricular block with no identifiable underlying cause.[S6.2-5] Other studies evaluating patients with syncope and underlying bundle branch block or bifascicular block found that 61% had significant, clinically relevant His Purkinje conduction abnormalities identified at EPS.[S6.2-8,S6.2-9] Patients with atrioventricular block that conducts in a 2:1 pattern can also have symptoms of fatigue and dizziness particularly if it persists during exertion.

6.3. Acute Management

6.3.1. Acute Management of Reversible Causes of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

Synopsis

In patients presenting with new atrioventricular block, medical evaluation may disclose transient or reversible causes, the treatment or resolution of which may make permanent pacing unnecessary. Lyme carditis is one of the more common reversible causes of atrioventricular block in endemic areas and should be sought in appropriate patients, as atrioventricular block in such cases is almost always reversible.[S6.3.1-13,S6.3.1-14] Digoxin toxicity, although increasingly uncommon, is another cause of atrioventricular block that may be reversed with drug washout or neutralizing antibody fragment therapy.[S6.3.1-1,] S6.3.1-3 Although overdoses of other antiarrhythmic drugs, beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers may cause reversible atrioventricular block, several studies have shown that therapeutic doses of these drugs are not commonly responsible for presentation with new atrioventricular block, and most patients in this scenario ultimately require permanent pacing.[S6.3.1-6][—][S6.3.1-9] Similarly, treatment of hypothyroidism suggested by laboratory testing and cardiac sarcoidosis associated with new atrioventricular block usually does not make permanent pacing unnecessary when otherwise indicated.[S6.3.1-10][—][S6.3.1-12]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Lyme disease is caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted by the Ixodes deer tick.[S6.3.1-13] The most common manifestation of Lyme carditis is atrioventricular block, usually at the atrioventricular nodal level.[S6.3.1-14] Approximately 40% of patients who are identified clinically require temporary pacing, but permanent atrioventricular block after antibiotic therapy is rare. In 1 review of published cases, median time to resolution of atrioventricular block was 6 days, with a range out to 42 days.[S6.3.1-2,S6.3.1-4,S6.3.1-5] Despite the use of lower chronic doses and widespread availability of testing for serum levels, digoxin toxicity as a cause of reversible atrioventricular block still occurs.[S6.3.1-14a] Most cases of

Recommendations for Acute Management of Reversible Causes of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 26.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. Patients with transient or reversible causes of atrioventricular block, such as Lyme carditis or drug toxicity,
should have medical therapy and supportive care, including temporary transvenous pacing if necessary, before determination of need for permanent pacing.S6.3.1-1—S6.3.1-5
IIaB-NR2. In selected patients with symptomatic second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block who are on
chronic stable doses of medically necessary antiarrhythmic or beta-blocker therapy, it is reasonable to proceed to permanent pacing without further observation for drug washout or reversibility.S6.3.1-6—S6.3.1-9
IIaB-NR3. In patients with second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block associated with cardiac sarcoidosis,
permanent pacing, with additional defbrillator capability if needed and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected, without further observation for reversibility is reasonable.S6.3.1-10,S6.3.1-11
IIbC-LD4. In patients with symptomatic second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block associated with thyroid
function abnormalities but without clinical myxedema, permanent pacing without further observation for reversibility may be considered.S6.3.1-12

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e167

atrioventricular block attributable to digoxin toxicity will respond to observation and supportive care; severe cases may respond to anti-digoxin Fab antibody therapy.[S6.3.] 1-1,S6.3.1-3

  1. Medications that slow or block atrioventricular conduction are commonly used in the treatment of hypertension, arrhythmias, heart failure, and other cardiac disease. Common examples are beta blockers, nondihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, and class I and III antiarrhythmic medications. Therefore, patients may commonly present with atrioventricular block while taking 1 of these medications. Moreover, these medications are sometimes part of an essential pharmacologic regimen that should not be interrupted. Although these scenarios may occasionally represent a reversible cause of atrioventricular block, several case series suggest that it is unusual for atrioventricular block to reverse with cessation of medications when used at therapeutic doses and even when reversal of atrioventricular block is observed acutely, later implant of a PPM is often necessary.[S6.3.1-6][—][S6.3.1-9] The decision for whether to proceed with permanent pacing must account for the potentially deleterious effect of high amounts of right ventricular pacing and whether alternate medications without atrioventricular slowing could be used.

  2. Cardiac sarcoidosis is an infiltrative/inflammatory cardiomyopathy that is often associated with atrioventricular

  • block and ventricular arrhythmias.[S6.3.1-15] Limited, small, nonrandomized studies of patients with cardiac sarcoidosis and atrioventricular block treated with corticosteroids –

  • found that only a few patients (13% 47%) had any reversibility of atrioventricular block.[S6.3.1-10,S6.3.1-11] Moreover, cardiac sarcoidosis may have a waxing and waning or progressive course and initial improvement in atrioventricular conduction may later reverse. Given the known risks of delay in implantation of PPMs in patients with atrioventricular block, it is often reasonable to proceed to implantation without further delay in this clinical scenario.[S6.3.1-16] Because of the risk of ventricular arrhythmias in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis, a CIED with defibrillator capability is often considered in patients who require permanent pacing.[S6.3.1-17]

  1. Severe thyroid disease, such as myxedema, rarely may be associated with reversible atrioventricular block.[S6.3.1-18] However, there is little evidence to suggest reversibility of atrioventricular block presenting in the context of less severe thyroid function abnormalities commonly seen in clinical practice. One series of 50 patients with atrioventricular block presenting in the context of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism found that only about 20% of patients had resolution of atrioventricular block with restoration of euthyroid state.[S6.3.1-12]

6.3.2. Acute Medical Therapy for Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for Acute Medical Therapy for Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 27 and 28.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaC-LD1. For patients with second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block believed to be at the atrioventricular
nodal level associated with symptoms or hemodynamic compromise, atropine is reasonable to improve atrioventricular conduction, increase ventricular rate, and improve symptoms.S6.3.2-1—S6.3.2-3
IIbB-NR2. For patients with second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block associated with symptoms or
hemodynamic compromise and who have low likelihood for coronary ischemia, beta-adrenergic agonists, such
as isoproterenol, dopamine, dobutamine, or epinephrine, may be considered to improve atrioventricular conduction, increase ventricular rate, and improve symptoms.S6.3.2-3—S6.3.2-7
IIbC-LD3. For patients with second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block associated with symptoms or
hemodynamic compromise in the setting of acute inferior MI, intravenous aminophylline may be
considered to improve atrioventricular conduction, increase ventricular rate, and improve symptoms.S6.3.2-8—S6.3.2-11

Synopsis

The acute treatment of bradycardia attributable to atrioventricular block will often begin with timely identification and removal of potential causative factors as well as medical therapy. Atropine has a long track record of use for this indication because of ease of administration and relatively low risk of adverse reactions. It is more likely to be useful for atrioventricular block at the

atrioventricular nodal level and for bradycardia attributable to excess vagal tone. Because of its short duration of action, it is generally used as a bridge to longerlasting therapy, such as infusion of a beta-adrenergic drug or temporary pacing. Aminophylline and glucagon have a possible role in treatment of atrioventricular block in the setting of acute MI and beta-blocker toxicity, respectively, but data are sparse.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e168

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Atropine is a parasympatholytic drug that enhances atrioventricular nodal conduction and automaticity, generally given in 0.5- to 1.0-mg IV increments. Current advanced cardiac life support recommendations advise early use of atropine for medical treatment of hemodynamically significant bradycardia, including atrioventricular block. Uncontrolled cohort studies suggest efficacy and clinical benefit, particularly in the setting of acute inferior MI.[S6.3.2-1][—][S6.3.2-3] Atropine is unlikely to improve atrioventricular block at the His bundle or His-Purkinje level and isolated reports have suggested occasional worsened atrioventricular conduction and/or hemodynamic compromise in such patients. For this reason, atropine should be used judiciously in patients with atrioventricular block and wide QRS complexes that suggest the presence of significant His Purkinje disease. Adverse effects of atropine include dry mouth, blurred vision, anhidrosis, urinary retention, and delirium. Excessive increase in heart rate may be problematic, particularly in patients with acute MI.

  2. Beta-adrenergic agonists such as isoproterenol, dopamine, dobutamine, and epinephrine exert direct effects to enhance atrioventricular nodal and, to a lesser degree, His-Purkinje conduction. These drugs may also enhance automaticity of subsidiary atrioventricular junctional and ventricular pacemakers in the setting of complete atrioventricular block. Clinical efficacy of dopamine was shown to be equivalent to transcutaneous pacing in 1

  • small randomized trial of patients with unstable bradycardia unresponsive to atropine in the prehospital setting.[S6.3.2-7] Isoproterenol was shown to elicit an escape rhythm in 68% of pacemaker-dependent patients undergoing generator replacement.[S6.3.2-4] Other data come from cohort studies of limited design.[S6.3.2-3,S6.3.2-5,S6.3.2-6] Adverse effects of beta-adrenergic agonists may include elicitation of ventricular arrhythmias and induction of coronary ischemia, particularly in the setting of acute MI or unstable coronary artery disease. In addition, isoproterenol may exacerbate hypotension because of the vasodilatory effects.
  1. Aminophylline is a methylxanthine compound that is a nonselective adenosine receptor antagonist and phosphodiesterase inhibitor. It is used clinically as a bronchodilator and as a reversal drug for dipyridamole, adenosine, and regadenoson in pharmacologic nuclear stress testing. Experimental evidence suggests a role of increased adenosine production in development of atrioventricular block in acute inferior MI. Several small case series of up to 8 patients have shown prompt reversal of atrioventricular block in this clinical setting without adverse effects.[S6.3.] 2-8—S6.3.2-11 Larger cohort studies and randomized trials in hospitalized patients are lacking. A large randomized trial and a systematic review showed no benefit for aminophylline in resuscitation for out-of-hospital bradyasystolic cardiac arrest.[S6.3.2-12]

6.3.3. Temporary Pacing for Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for Temporary Pacing for Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 29 and 30.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaB-NR1. For patients with second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block associated with symptoms or
hemodynamic compromise that is refractory to medical therapy, temporary transvenous pacing is reasonable to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S6.3.3-1—S6.3.3-7
IIaB-NR2. For patients who require prolonged temporary transvenous pacing, it is reasonable to choose an externalized permanent activefxation lead over a standard passivefxation temporary pacing lead.S6.3.3-8—S6.3.3-14
IIbB-R3. For patients with second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block and hemodynamic compromise
refractory to antibradycardic medical therapy, temporary transcutaneous pacing may be considered until a temporary transvenous or PPM is placed or the bradyarrhythmia resolves.S6.3.3-15—S6.3.3-20

Synopsis

Temporary transvenous pacing techniques have been used for nearly 60 years but have remarkably little data to guide their appropriate use. Early literature suggests a high rate of complications and dislodgement that has prompted some authors to advise very limited use.[S6.3.3-2,S6.3.3-4] More recent case series and trials

with balloon flotation catheters suggest better safety profile.[S6.3.3-6] The cause of atrioventricular block must be taken into account when considering the timing and necessity of temporary pacing. For example, in the setting of an MI, initial focus on primary reperfusion rather than temporary pacing for rate support may be associated with improved outcomes.[S6.3.3-21] The safety

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e169

of prolonged temporary pacing with an externalized active fixation permanent pacing lead has been demonstrated over the past 10 years.[S6.3.3-8][—][S6.3.3-14] Transcutaneous pacing, devised.60 years ago, has a limited role in the acute treatment of atrioventricular block because of the painful nature of the stimulation and difficulty in ascertaining reliable myocardial capture.[S6.3.3-22] Figure 5 provides an algorithm for choosing specific pacing strategy once temporary pacing is thought to be clinically necessary.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Temporary transvenous pacing was introduced in 1959 and is now widely available. Use of semirigid fixed curve catheters were associated with high complication rates, particularly in the acute MI setting and when placed by less-experienced operators.[S6.3.3-1,S6.3.3-2,S6.3.3-7] One randomized trial showed faster placement and lower complication rates with balloon-tipped catheters.[S6.3.3-6] Nonrandomized data suggest lower complication rates using internal jugular vein access and fluoroscopic or echocardiographic guidance (for venous access and lead position) for placement.[S6.3.3-4,S6.3.3-5,S6.3.3-23] Complications for transvenous pacing wires are greater when left in place for longer duration (.48 hours), which may delay placement of a PPM.[S6.3.3-3] Temporary transvenous pacing should therefore be used for the minimum duration necessary to provide hemodynamic support or back-up pacing to prevent asystole and should be placed by the most experienced available operator. If atrioventricular block is felt to be irreversible, and the means to place a permanent pacing system is available, it may be best for the patient to avoid temporary pacing and proceed directly to permanent system implantation.

  2. Use of an active fixation permanent pacing lead externalized and connected to a reusable PPM generator (sometimes referred to as a “temporary PPM”) has been introduced as a means of allowing more prolonged temporary pacing for pacemaker-dependent patients who have a contraindication to PPM implantation, such as infection. A primary use is for bridging therapy in patients who have undergone CIED extraction for infection and require prolonged antibiotic treatment.[S6.3.3-11] Patients receiving longterm antibiotics who will be receiving a new

pacemaker benefit from externalized devices during the course of therapy.[S6.3.3-24] Non-RCTs and cohort studies suggest that this form of temporary pacing is associated with much lower dislodgment rates and lower complication rates overall.[S6.3.3-8][—][S6.3.3-14] Other advantages include ability to mobilize patients who would otherwise be confined to bedrest in an intensive care unit setting. One study suggested that this form of pacing is cost saving after 1 to 2 days, despite the higher lead cost because of ability to care for the patient in a lower intensity/lower cost setting.[S6.3.3-9] No infections have been reported with the use of reusable sterilized pacemakers.[S6.3.3-8][—][S6.3.3-14] 3. Transcutaneous pacing was reported in 1952 and became commercially available in the early 1980s.[S6.3.3-20] It is now universally available in combination with external defibrillators. Numerous trials have not shown any improvement in survival to hospital discharge when used in the prehospital phase of bradyasystolic cardiac arrest.[S6.3.3-16][—][S6.3.3-19] Its use appears to be greater when applied to patients with a perfusing rhythm or early in the course of cardiac arrest.[S6.3.3-15,S6.3.3-17] There are no controlled trials of transcutaneous pacing outside the setting of prehospital cardiac arrest. Use of transcutaneous pacing may be limited by high capture thresholds and patient discomfort, which may require sedation. Assessment of myocardial capture by ECG alone may be difficult and should be confirmed by assessment of pulse or intra-arterial pressure. Because prolonged use of transcutaneous pacing may be unreliable and poorly tolerated, it should generally serve as a shortterm bridge to temporary or permanent transvenous pacing or resolution of bradycardia. However, prophylactic placement of pads for rapid institution of temporary pacing, if necessary, is reasonable in patients who are thought to be at future risk for significant bradycardia.[S6.3.3-25]

6.4. Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

An algorithm for the management of bradycardia or pauses attributable to chronic atrioventricular block is provided in Figure 7. Specific subsections address general principles, transient or potentially reversible causes, additional testing, and permanent pacing for chronic atrioventricular block.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e170

Figure 7 Management of Bradycardia or Pauses Attributable to Chronic Atrioventricular Block Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. Refer to Section 6.4. for discussion. *Symptoms correlate with AV block.[†] PR interval.240 ms, LBBB.[‡] PR interval.240 ms, QRS.120 ms or fascicular block.[x] Refer to heart failure guidelines.[S6.4-1,S6.4-2] AV 5 atrioventricular; GDMT 5 guideline-directed management and therapy; HF 5 heart failure; LBBB 5 left bundle branch block; LVEF 5 left ventricular ejection fraction.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e171

6.4.1. General Principles of Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for General Principles of Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 31, 32, 33, and 34.

CORLOERecommendations
III: HarmC-LD1. In patients withfrst-degree atrioventricular block or second-degree Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) or
2:1 atrioventricular block which is believed to be at the level of the atrioventricular node, with
symptoms that do not temporally correspond to the atrioventricular block, permanent pacing should not be performed.S6.4.1-1—S6.4.1-7
III: HarmC-LD2. In asymptomatic patients withfrst-degree atrioventricular block or second-degree Mobitz type I
(Wenckebach) or 2:1 atrioventricular block which is believed to be at the level of the atrioventricular node, permanent pacing should not be performed.S6.4.1-4—S6.4.1-10

Synopsis

The presence or absence of symptoms is a major determinant on whether permanent pacing will be required in the setting of bradycardia associated with atrioventricular block. In addition to symptoms, there are 3 additional clinical issues that must be considered when deciding on the use of permanent pacing in patients with atrioventricular block. First, the site of atrioventricular block is critical because patients with infranodal disease who then later develop complete heart block will be dependent on unreliable ventricular escape rhythms. Second, significant amounts of right ventricular pacing are potentially deleterious. Finally, patients with atrioventricular block may have an associated systemic disease that leads to progressive atrioventricular block or has additional risk for ventricular arrhythmias.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In patients who have second-degree Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) or 2:1 atrioventricular block but with symptoms of dizziness or presyncope or even syncope that do not temporally correspond to the episode of atrioventricular block, it is unclear whether permanent pacing will improve symptoms or alleviate them. If the level of the block is at the atrioventricular node, then sudden progression to a higher degree of atrioventricular block is unlikely.[S6.4.1-1,S6.4.1-3] If the symptoms do not correlate with the episodes of first-degree or second-degree Mobitz type I atrioventricular block, the episodes would be considered unrelated and a pacemaker would not be indicated.[S6.4.1-1,S6.4.1-3] Given the procedural and longterm risks of PPMs, in the absence of mitigating circumstances, for patients with first-degree or second-degree Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) atrioventricular block that
  • does not clearly correspond to symptoms, further monitoring and follow up should be implemented.[S6.4.] 1-4—S6.4.1-7
  1. First- and second-degree Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) atrioventricular blocks (or 2:1 atrioventricular block, if the level of block is at the atrioventricular node) are typically benign in that they do not progress suddenly to complete heart block.[S6.4.1-1,S6.4.1-3] Treatment of these conduction disorders with a pacemaker are typically reserved for significant symptoms that affect QOL. Occasionally second-degree Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) atrioventricular block is in fact infranodal, and in those instances a pacemaker may be considered even in the absence of symptoms.[S6.4.1-1] Although a narrow QRS complex suggests that the block is at the level of the atrioventricular node, there are instances where it has been determined to be infranodal during an EPS. Symptoms may be difficult to correlate but ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring or a treadmill exercise test may be useful. Improvement in atrioventricular conduction suggests that the site of block is at the atrioventricular node, whereas worsening atrioventricular conduction suggests infranodal block. If the symptoms do not clearly correspond to the episodes of atrioventricular block, the risks associated with the pacemaker in the absence of clear benefit make the overall risk-benefit ratio unfavorable.[S6.4.1-11] Similarly, in patients with longstanding persistent or permanent AF with a low heart rate and appropriate chronotropic response, in the absence of symptoms, pacing for rate support is unlikely to be beneficial. Although PPM implantation is a relatively low-risk cardiac procedure, procedural complications and death directly related to implant can occur, and implanted leads have long-term management implications.[S6.4.1-4][—][S6.4.1-7]

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e172

6.4.2. Transient/Potentially Reversible Causes of Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for Potentially Reversible or Transient Causes of Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 34, 35, 36, and 37.

CORLOERecommendations
IC-LD1. In patients with symptomatic atrioventricular block attributable to a known reversible cause in whom the
atrioventricular block does not resolve despite treatment of the underlying cause, permanent pacing is recommended.S6.4.2-1—S6.4.2-3
III: HarmC-LD2. In patients who had acute atrioventricular block attributable to a known reversible and nonrecurrent cause,
and have had complete resolution of the atrioventricular block with treatment of the underlying cause, permanent pacing should not be performed.S6.4.2-1, S6.4.2-4—S6.4.2-9
III: HarmC-LD3. In patients with asymptomatic vagally mediated atrioventricular block, permanent pacing should not be performed.S6.4.2-6—S6.4.2-10

Synopsis

Atrioventricular block can be secondary to a potentially reversible primary process, such as metabolic derangements and some infectious diseases. For example, Lyme carditis causing atrioventricular block often resolves with antibiotics without the need for permanent pacing. Atrioventricular block attributable to medications, such as beta-blocker overdose or digoxin toxicity often resolve with supportive care and reversal or withdrawal of the offending drug although patients remain at risk for future bradycardia. In patients with obstructive sleep apnea, episodes of bradycardia during apneic episodes usually resolve with continuous positive airway pressure. Vagotonic atrioventricular block can result in paroxysmal atrioventricular block, and if asymptomatic, does not require pacing therapy. Atrioventricular block in the setting of ischemia and MI is addressed in Section 8.3.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In patients with atrioventricular block and an acute infection such as Lyme disease, effective antibiotic treatment usually reverses the atrioventricular block although resolution may take a month or longer.[S6.4.2-1] In general, permanent pacing is not warranted. However, for patients in whom atrioventricular block does not resolve, permanent pacing will be needed to alleviate the symptoms and bradycardia.[S6.4.2-3,S6.4.2-11]

  2. There are several reversible causes of atrioventricular block unrelated to myocardial ischemia, including electrolyte derangements, notably hyperkalemia, and certain infections such as Lyme disease where treatment for the underlying cause also resolves the atrioventricular block.[S6.4.2-3,S6.4.2-11,S6.4.2-12] Lyme disease affects the myocardium in approximately 5% of affected patients and the most common cardiac finding is atrioventricular block. However, atrioventricular block resolves after typically 1 to 2 weeks of antibiotic treatment.[S6.4.2-1] Similarly, atrioventricular block has been reported in patients with rheumatic heart disease that resolved with

antibiotics.[S6.4.2-4] Acute overdose or toxicity of certain medications can also cause transient or reversible atrioventricular block. Conversely, new onset atrioventricular block in patients who have been on chronic stable doses of atrioventricular nodal blocking medications often does not resolve or can recur requiring permanent pacing.[S6.4.2-13] Therefore, continued surveillance for recurrence of atrioventricular block is useful or even consideration for permanent pacing after the offending medication has been discontinued. Although PPM implantation is a relatively low-risk cardiac procedure, procedural complications and death directly related to implant can occur, and implanted leads have long-term management implications.[S6.4.2-6][—][S6.4.2-9]

  1. Vagally mediated atrioventricular block observed with ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring may be an incidental finding that occurred while the patient was sleeping or in other cases be associated with syncope. Vagally mediated atrioventricular block is felt to be attributable to neural reflexes, which result in simultaneous bradycardia and hypotension.[S6.4.2-14] There is typically sinus rate slowing in conjunction with the onset of atrioventricular block and the atrioventricular block can be high grade or complete.[S6.4.2-10] Atrioventricular block attributable to high vagal tone, such as during sleep, is almost always asymptomatic.[S6.4.2-15] The level of the block is at the atrioventricular node, and there is normal atrioventricular nodal function when tested at EPS.[S6.4.2-16] If asymptomatic, medical treatment or pacemaker implantation is not warranted for atrioventricular block attributable to high vagal tone or vagally mediated atrioventricular block. If the patient is having frequent syncopal episodes, treatment may be warranted if bradycardia appears to be the dominant factor in these episodes.[S6.4.2-17] Although PPM implantation is a relatively low-risk cardiac procedure, procedural complications and death directly related to implant can occur, and implanted leads have long-term management implications.[S6.4.2-6][—][S6.4.2-9]

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e173

6.4.3. Additional Testing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for Additional Testing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 37 and 38.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaB-R1. In patients with symptoms (e.g., lightheadedness, dizziness) of unclear etiology who havefrst-degree
atrioventricular block or second-degree Mobitz type I atrioventricular block on ECG, ambulatory
electrocardiographic monitoring is reasonable to establish correlation between symptoms and rhythm abnormalities.S6.4.3-1—S6.4.3-4
IIaC-LD2. In patients with exertional symptoms (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath) who havefrst-degree or second-
degree Mobitz type I atrioventricular block at rest, an exercise treadmill test is reasonable to determine whether they may beneft from permanent pacing.S6.4.3-5,S6.4.3-6
IIbB-NR3. In selected patients with second-degree atrioventricular block, an EPS may be considered to determine the level of the block and to determine whether they may beneft from permanent pacing.S6.4.3-7—S6.4.3-9
IIbC-LD4. In selected patients with second-degree atrioventricular block, carotid sinus massage and/or
pharmacological challenge with atropine, isoproterenol, or procainamide may be considered to determine the level of the block and to determine whether they may beneft from permanent pacing.S6.4.3-10—S6.4.3-12

Synopsis

In patients with second-degree atrioventricular block, differentiation between Mobitz type I and Mobitz type II is important because they have different prognostic implications. Similarly, the presence of severe first-degree atrioventricular block (PR.0.30 s) and a narrow QRS usually indicates atrioventricular node delay. In both cases, symptom correlation with rhythm changes observed on ECG is important to determine whether permanent pacing will be beneficial. Testing options are shown in Table S2 in the Web Supplement.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In patients with first-degree atrioventricular block or second-degree Mobitz type I atrioventricular block, the need for pacemaker implantation is symptom driven. It may be challenging to attribute symptoms to atrioventricular block if they occur intermittently. Event monitors, worn for 30 to 90 days, and ICDs, which can be left in place for.2 years, tend to have greater diagnostic yield than 24- to 48-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring.[S6.4.3-1][—][S6.4.3-4] In 1 study, atrioventricular block was more commonly identified as a cause for syncope in those patients with structural heart disease compared with patients without structural heart disease (34% versus 13%).[S6.4.3-13] In addition, monitors can be used to look for changes in QRS morphology such as alternating bundle branch block. Although Mobitz type I atrioventricular block is usually associated with a narrow QRS and Mobitz type II atrioventricular block most often has a wide QRS, in some cases Mobitz type I atrioventricular block and an associated narrow QRS can be attributable to infranodal block.[S6.4.3-14] The type of monitor chosen will depend on the frequency of symptoms.

  2. Treadmill exercise stress testing can be diagnostic in the setting of exertional symptoms. The development of atrioventricular block or sudden change in atrioventricular conduction on a treadmill may provide diagnostic clues for exertional symptoms.[S6.4.3-15] Ischemia as a cause of

  • the symptoms and bradycardia during treadmill testing can be assessed. An exercise treadmill stress test may help differentiate whether 2:1 atrioventricular block is Mobitz type I or II or identify the presence of infranodal disease. Exercise causes vagal withdrawal and increased sympathetic tone leading to improved atrioventricular nodal conduction. If the baseline atrioventricular block is infranodal, the atrioventricular block will not resolve and will likely worsen as the sinus rate increases.[S6.4.3-5,] S6.4.3-16 The resting ECG may be helpful if it shows a bundle branch block or hemiblock that may raise suspicion for episodic high-grade or complete atrioventricular block.[S6.4.3-6,S6.4.3-16] Exercise may also be useful in patients with profound first-degree atrioventricular block and exertional symptoms to help determine if nonphysiologic timing of atrial and ventricular contraction (pseudopacemaker syndrome) is contributing to symptoms.
  1. If the type of second-degree atrioventricular block cannot be determined from electrocardiographic and telemetry recordings, the EPS can be informative to determine the anatomic site of atrioventricular block: atrioventricular node, intra-His, or infra-His.[S6.4.3-9] In second-degree atrioventricular block with concomitant bundle branch block, the block is likely but not necessarily (70% likelihood).[S6.4.3-8] Similarly, 2:1 atrioventricular block with bundle branch block is frequently assumed to be indicative of infranodal block; however, 15% to 20% of these patients can have block in the atrioventricular node.[S6.4.3-8] EPS may help identify the presence of His bundle extrasystoles as a cause of bradycardia that presents as atrioventricular block on ECG.

  2. Carotid sinus massage and medication challenges can be used to identify the presence of paroxysmal atrioventricular block or determine the level of block in patients with second-degree block where the level of block is uncertain by electrocardiographic analysis alone (e.g., 2:1 atrioventricular block or Mobitz type I atrioventricular block in the setting of a wide QRS complex). One study

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e174

showed that in patients with bifascicular block on ECG, a 15-ms increase in the His-ventricular (HV) interval or induced infranodal atrioventricular block with procainamide challenge was considered abnormal and possibly indicative of underlying infra-Hisian block.[S6.4.3-11] The sensitivity of a procainamide challenge for distal conduction disease is low. However, it could be potentially useful in cases where the HV interval is borderline or atrioventricular block cannot be induced.[S6.4.3-11,S6.4.3-17] Atropine shortens the refractoriness of the atrioventricular node but has little effect on infranodal conduction tissues.[S6.4.3-10] Atropine will improve or have no change in atrioventricular conduction block if the block is at the level of the atrioventricular node but will worsen atrioventricular conduction block in the pres-

ence of intra-His or distal conduction disease.[S6.4.3-8,S6.4.] 3-18 Isoproterenol can also be used to unmask underlying pathologic His-Purkinje disease by enhancing atrioventricular nodal and sinus conduction and precipitating heart block with faster heart rates.[S6.4.3-12,S6.4.3-19] Similar to atropine, worsening atrioventricular block with isoproterenol infusion would be suggestive of infranodal block. Conversely, improvement of atrioventricular conduction with carotid sinus massage may be observed in patients with infranodal atrioventricular block.[S6.4.3-10] All provocative testing should be done with careful monitoring, particularly when using a drug, because the pharmacologic effects can be prolonged.

6.4.4. Permanent Pacing

Recommendations for Permanent Pacing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 34, 39, and 40.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients with acquired second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, high-grade atrioventricular
block, or third-degree atrioventricular block not attributable to reversible or physiologic causes, permanent pacing is recommended regardless of symptoms.S6.4.4-1—S6.4.4-7
IB-NR2. In patients with neuromuscular diseases associated with conduction disorders, including muscular dystrophy
(e.g., myotonic dystrophy type 1) or Kearns-Sayre syndrome, who have evidence of second-degree
atrioventricular block, third-degree atrioventricular block, or an HV interval of 70 ms or greater, regardless of
IC-LDsymptoms, permanent pacing, with additional defbrillator capability if needed and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected, is recommended.S6.4.4-8—S6.4.4-15 3. In patients with permanent AF and symptomatic bradycardia, permanent pacing is recommended.S6.4.4-2,S6.4. 4-16,S6.4.4-17
IC-LD4. In patients who develop symptomatic atrioventricular block as a consequence of guideline-directed
management and therapy for which there is no alternative treatment and continued treatment is
clinically necessary, permanent pacing is recommended to increase heart rate and improve symptoms.S6.4.4-18—S6.4.4-24
IIaB-NR5. In patients with an infltrative cardiomyopathy, such as cardiac sarcoidosis or amyloidosis, and second-
degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, high-grade atrioventricular block, or third-degree
atrioventricular block, permanent pacing, with additional defbrillator capability if needed and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected, is reasonable.S6.4.4-25—S6.4.4-30
IIaB-NR6. In patients with lamin A/C gene mutations, including limb-girdle and Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophies,
with a PR interval greater than 240 ms and LBBB, permanent pacing, with additional defbrillator capability if needed and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected, is reasonable.S6.4.4-31—S6.4.4-33
IIaC-LD7. In patients with markedfrst-degree or second-degree Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) atrioventricular
block with symptoms that are clearly attributable to the atrioventricular block, permanent pacing is reasonable.S6.4.4-34—S6.4.4-37
IIbC-LD8. In patients with neuromuscular diseases, such as myotonic dystrophy type 1, with a PR interval greater than
240 ms, a QRS duration greater than 120 ms, or fascicular block, permanent pacing, with additional
defbrillator capability if needed and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected, may be considered.S6.4.4-9—S6.4.4-13,S6.4.4-15

Synopsis

Similar to SND, symptoms are an important factor when determining whether permanent pacing is indicated. If the patient is symptomatic, regardless of the level of atrioventricular block and the likelihood of future progression of atrioventricular block, permanent pacing is indicated. However, unlike SND, infranodal atrioventricular block regardless of the presence or absence of symptoms warrants a pacemaker because the patient could suffer from sudden

onset complete atrioventricular block resulting in syncope and subsequent harm (Figure 7).

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Older observational studies have documented the natural history of untreated patients with second-degree Mobitz type II and third-degree atrioventricular block, and they demonstrated that these patients have recurrent symptoms including syncope and heart failure.[S6.4.4-1,S6.4.4-4] There

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e175

are also observational studies that have demonstrated a mortality benefit with pacing therapy. One study from the 1970s showed that despite having other cardiac comorbidities such as prior MI and heart failure, there was an improvement in survival compared with similar patients who did not receive a pacemaker.[S6.4.4-6] A 5- year survival benefit was also shown in a study from the 1980s evaluating patients with second-degree Mobitz type II and 2:1 atrioventricular block. Importantly, in patients with high-grade atrioventricular block, although those with symptoms had a worse prognosis than those without symptoms, the prognosis was poor overall for both groups if left untreated.[S6.4.4-3,S6.4.4-5]

  1. Patients with certain neuromuscular disorders such as one of the muscular dystrophies or Kearns-Sayre syndrome often develop cardiac involvement; those with certain myotonic dystrophies such as myotonic dystrophy type 1, Emery-Dreifuss, and limb-girdle type 1B have a high incidence of conduction abnormalities.[S6.4.4-10] Up to 20% of patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 have evidence of atrioventricular block on their ECG or intermittent second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block on 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring.[S6.4.4-9,S6.4.4-12] More than 50% of patients with a normal ECG may have evidence of infra-Hisian block at EPS demonstrating the clinical use of the EPS in these patients. One study found that 46.7% of patients with an HV interval 70 ms developed high-grade atrioventricular block.[S6.4.4-14] Although there are no randomized trials assessing whether pacing reduces sudden cardiac death or all-cause mortality, a large retrospective study showed a 75% lower risk of sudden death in those with a pacemaker.[S6.4.4-15] Some of the patients will have concomitant ventricular arrhythmias or systolic dysfunction requiring implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy in addition to pacing support.[S6.4.4-8,S6.4.4-11] Serial ECGs in these patients can be performed in follow-up to assess for development of conduction abnormalities.[S6.4.4-13]

  2. Diagnosing atrioventricular block in the setting of AF can be less straightforward than evaluating patients in sinus rhythm. Atrioventricular block should be suspected if a slow regular ventricular response is observed, and a wide QRS might indicate the presence of infranodal block. Retrospective studies using ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring have had conflicting results; in 1 study, pauses.3 seconds even when they occurred in the setting of AF, were mostly asymptomatic, while in the other 2 studies, most pauses.3 seconds were symptomatic. All 3 of these studies had a mix of patients with AF and sinus rhythm and subgroup analyses were not done.[S6.4.4-2,S6.4.4-16,S6.4.4-17] If the pauses are causing symptoms or if the pauses are attributable to infranodal block, the recommendation is similar to patients who are in normal sinus rhythm. In the asymptomatic patient, there is no specific pause duration that warrants permanent pacing.

  3. Beta blockers have been recommended as guidelinedirected medical therapy for heart failure and after MI.[S6.4.4-18,S6.4.4-19] Atrioventricular block was usually an exclusion criterion for large trials that demonstrated the benefit of beta blockers in these patient populations.[S6.4.4-20][—][S6.4.4-22] Atrioventricular block can develop secondary to drugs such as amiodarone or sotalol that may be important for the management of AF. The benefit of any medication that exacerbates atrioventricular block must be balanced with potentially deleterious effects of right ventricular pacing.[S6.4.4-23,S6.] 4.4-24

  4. Cardiac sarcoidosis is an infiltrative cardiomyopathy that is knowntopredisposepatientstobothbradycardiaandtachyarrhythmias. Systemic corticosteroids have been shown in small case studies to resolve atrioventricular block in some patients although the response rate has been reported to be in the 30% to 60% range.[S6.4.4-25,S6.4.4-27,S6.4.4-29] In 1 study of 30 patients with cardiac sarcoid, 5 had atrioventricular block and 2 of the 3 patients who received corticosteroids within 30 days of the initial diagnosis had complete resolution of atrioventricular block, while both of the 2 patients who received corticosteroids.30 days of the initial diagnosis had persistent atrioventricular block.[S6.4.4-38] However, even if atrioventricular block resolves, the recurrence rate of atrioventricular block and future risk of ventricular arrhythmias remains unclear.[S6.4.4-39] InpatientswithtypeIALcardiacamyloidosis, there appears to be a high incidence of bradycardia and atrioventricular block. One small study showed that all 25 patients referred for biopsy proven AL cardiac amyloidosis had evidence of conduction disease on the baseline ECG and almost all had a prolonged HV interval (.55 ms) despite a narrow QRS.[S6.4.4-26,S6.4.4-28]

  5. Patients with mutations in the lamin A/C gene can present with atrioventricular block, atrial arrhythmias, and ventricular arrhythmias.[S6.4.4-31,S6.4.4-33,S6.4.4-40][—][S6.4.4-45] Lamin A/C genetic defects have been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy, limb girdle muscular dystrophy, and an autosomal dominant variant of EmeryDreifuss.[S6.4.4-31] Case series in patients with lamin A/C cardiomyopathy have found some form of atrioventricular block in approximately 50% of patients and may be attributable to intramyocardial fibrosis that can be seen on cardiac MRI with gadolinium enhancement.[S6.4.4-32,S6.4.4-40] Lamin A/C affected patients with evidence of atrioventricular block, with or without symptoms, are at an increased risk of sudden death.[S6.4.4-46] One study showed that a first-degree atrioventricular block may be predictive of future ventricular arrhythmias.[S6.4.4-33] Because of the high risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in these patients, devices with pacing as well as defibrillator capabilities are typically implanted.[S6.4.4-42,S6.4.4-47][—][S6.4.4-49]

  6. First-degree atrioventricular block and second-degree Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) atrioventricular block,

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e176

when above or at the level of the atrioventricular node, are not concerning for progression to a higher degree atrioventricular block. They are also typically asymptomatic. However, in some patients, severe first-degree atrioventricular block can cause symptoms similar to pacemaker syndrome, as well as heart failure, and exertional intolerance.[S6.4.4-34,S6.4.4-37] If the PR interval is very long, atrial contraction occurs when the atrioventricular valves are closed which can lead to an increase in wedge pressure and a decrease in cardiac output[S6.4.4-50] This phenomenon has been referred to as “pseudo-pacemaker syndrome” and has also been reported in patients with dual pathway physiology of the atrioventricular node.[S6.4.4-51,S6.4.4-52] In patients with second-degree atrioventricular block Mobitz type I, frequently dropped QRS complexes can lead to symptoms attributable to loss of atrioventricular synchrony even in the absence of bradycardia.[S6.4.4-52]

  1. In patients with neuromuscular diseases that can affect the cardiac conduction system, such as myotonic dystrophy 1, the degree of the conduction abnormality can vary from mild first-degree atrioventricular block to complete heart block and it often progresses over a variable period of time.[S6.4.4-10,S6.4.4-53][—][S6.4.4-55] Serial ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring and EPSs have been done to determine whether paroxysmal atrioventricular block is present or for identifying a prolonged HV interval (i.e.,.70 ms).[S6.4.4-9] In a single center study of 211 myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients, 45 patients

were categorized as having a severe electrocardiographic abnormality (PR interval.240 ms, QRS.120 ms, second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block, or a nonsinus rhythm) and 29 (65%) underwent pacemaker or ICD implantation.[S6.4.4-12] Over 90% of the patients were asymptomatic at initial implant and at 5-year follow-up 13% of patients were pacemaker dependent.[S6.4.4-12] In a multicenter prospective registry of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, this definition for severe electrocardiographic abnormalities had a sensitivity of 74% and a negative predictive value of 97.1% for predicting sudden death (rhythm at death unknown).[S6.4.4-11] In this study, sudden death accounted for 33% of deaths while 40% of deaths were attributable to progressive neuromuscular respiratory failure, emphasizing that use of a CIED and type of CIED chosen should be based on arrhythmia risk profile, patient preference, and overall prognosis.[S6.4.4-11] Data for other types of less common neuromuscular disorders (without lamin A/C involvement) is limited to case reports. Although neuromuscular disorders are a heterogeneous group with different cardiac effects, in the presence of severe conduction disorders the recommendations are similar, while acknowledging the limited evidence base.

6.4.4.1. Permanent Pacing Techniques and Methods for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

Recommendations for Permanent Pacing Techniques and Methods for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 39 and 40 and the Systematic Review.

CORLOERecommendations
IA1. In patients with SND and atrioventricular block who require permanent pacing, dual chamber pacing is recommended over single chamber ventricular pacing.S6.4.4.1-1—S6.4.4.1-7
IA2. In select patients with atrioventricular block who require permanent pacing in whom frequent
ventricular pacing is not expected, or who have signifcant comorbidities that are likely to
determine clinical outcomes and that may limit the beneft of dual chamber pacing, single chamber ventricular pacing is effective.S6.4.4.1-1—S6.4.4.1-6,S6.4.4.1-8—S6.4.4.1-10
IB-R3. For patients in sinus rhythm with a single chamber ventricular pacemaker who develop pacemaker syndrome, revising to a dual chamber pacemaker is recommended.S6.4.4.1-1,S6.4.4.1-2, S6.4.4.1-5,S6.4.4.1-8—S6.4.4.1-10
IIaB-RSR4. In patients with atrioventricular block who have an indication for permanent pacing with a LVEF
between 36% and 50% and are expected to require ventricular pacing more than 40% of the
time, it is reasonable to choose pacing methods that maintain physiologic ventricular activation
(e.g., cardiac resynchronization therapy [CRT] or His bundle pacing) over right ventricular pacing.S6.4.4.1-7,S6.4.4.1-11—S6.4.4.1-19
IIaB-R5. In patients with atrioventricular block who have an indication for permanent pacing with a LVEF
between 36% and 50% and are expected to require ventricular pacing less than 40% of the time,
it is reasonable to choose right ventricular pacing over pacing methods that maintain physiologic ventricular activation (e.g., CRT or His bundle pacing).S6.4.4.1-15,S6.4.4.1-16,S6.4.4.1-20, S6.4.4.1-21
IIbB-RSR6. In patients with atrioventricular block at the level of the atrioventricular node who have an
indication for permanent pacing, His bundle pacing may be considered to maintain physiologic ventricular activation.S6.4.4.1-19,S6.4.4.1-22—S6.4.4.1-25
III: HarmC-LD7. In patients with permanent or persistent AF in whom a rhythm control strategy is not planned, implantation of an atrial lead should not be performed.S6.4.4.1-26,S6.4.4.1-27

SR 5 systematic review.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e177

Synopsis

Refer to “Systematic Review for the 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS Guideline on the Evaluation and Management of Patients With Bradycardia and Cardiac Conduction Delay” for the complete systematic evidence review,[S6.4.4.1-19] and the Online Data Supplement for additional data and analyses. The results from the question “Impact of Physiologic Versus Right Ventricular Pacing Among Patients With Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Greater Than 35%” and the writing committee’s review of the totality of the literature were used to frame recommendations. Recommendations that are based on a body of evidence that includes the systematic review conducted by the evidence review committee are denoted by the superscript SR (e.g., LOE: B-R[SR]). The effects of pacing mode on outcomes in patients with atrioventricular block have also been reviewed in a recent expert consensus statement.[S6.4.4.1-28]

In older observational studies, patients with high-grade atrioventricular block often had syncope and heart failure symptoms prompting pacemaker implantation, although sudden death attributable to atrioventricular block was not commonly reported.[S6.4.4.1-29][—][S6.4.4.1-31] There are several RCTs that looked at the possible benefits of dual chamber pacing for atrioventricular block compared with ventricular pacing but neither improvements in all-cause mortality nor cardiovascular mortality were demonstrated.[S6.4.4.1-1][—][S6.4.4.] 1-5,S6.4.4.1-8

However, regardless of pacing technique, patients with atrioventricular block will require ventricular pacing for rate support. Specialized pacing modalities, such as biventricular pacing or His bundle pacing may alleviate the deleterious effects of right ventricular pacing in these patients. When determining the type of pacemaker (single, dual, biventricular), many patient factors should be considered including the projected percent of ventricular pacing and the LVEF. As addressed in the 2013 ACCF/ AHA guideline for the management of heart failure, biventricular pacing can be useful for the patient on guideline-directed management and therapy who has an LVEF of 35% with an anticipated requirement for significant ventricular pacing (.40%).[S6.4.4.1-32]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. PASE (Pacemaker Selection in the Elderly), MOST (Mode Selection Trial in Sinus Node Dysfunction), and CTOPP (Canadian Trial of Physiologic Pacing) were RCTs that enrolled subjects indicated for a pacemaker with SND or atrioventricular block, or both, and compared dual chamber pacing or pacing modes that maintained atrioventricular synchrony with single chamber ventricular pacing.[S6.4.4.1-1][—][S6.4.4.1-4,S6.4.4.1-6] These trials did not demonstrate a reduction in all-cause mortality or stroke. The PASE investigators did a subgroup analysis and found no difference in functional status or QOL life for the atrioventricular block patients but did find that the SND patients with dual chamber pacing
  • had improved functional status after 18 months of pacing therapy compared with single chamber ventricular pacing patients. These RCTs also showed a lower incidence of AF in the dual chamber patients.[S6.4.4.1-28] A comprehensive Cochrane review looking at pacing mode and outcomes concluded that dual chamber pacing is preferred because of a smaller incidence of AF and because of the prevalence of pacemaker syndrome with single chamber ventricular pacing.[S6.4.4.1-5] Clinical situations where it may be reasonable to implant a single chamber ventricular pacing device include patients with frailty or significant comorbidities, advanced age, a very sedentary lifestyle, difficulty placing the atrial lead and very infrequent episodes where pacing would be needed.
  1. UKPace (United Kingdom Pacing and Cardiovascular Events), an RCT that only enrolled elderly patients with atrioventricular block and compared dual chamber with single chamber ventricular pacing did not show a mortality benefit or a lower incidence of AF or heart failure in the patients with dual chamber pacing. For the combined outcome of stroke, transient ischemic attack, and other thromboembolism, the mean annual rate was not different between the 2 groups.[S6.4.4.1-8,S6.4.4.1-33] Furthermore, there was a significantly higher risk of procedural complications in the dual chamber group (7.8% versus 3.5%; p,0.001). Similarly, the MOST and CTOPP studies did not show any all-cause mortality or cardiovascular death reduction in the dual chamber group.[S6.4.4.]

1-2—S6.4.4.1-4,S6.4.4.1-8 Therefore, although dual chamber devices provide atrioventricular synchrony and are generally preferable, it is reasonable to implant a single chamber ventricular pacing system in patients who do not need the chronotropic support from atrial pacing and who have significant comorbidities or limited mobility.

In addition, for patients who will only require intermittent pacing support, single chamber ventricular pacing can be a reasonable option. Patients who require intermittent or occasional pacing are less likely to develop symptoms of pacemaker syndrome such as exertional intolerance and hypotension.[S6.4.4.1-1]

  1. Patients who are in sinus rhythm with single chamber ventricular pacing can develop symptoms of pacemaker syndrome such as exertional intolerance and hypotension. Patients with a high burden of ventricular pacing and intact ventriculoatrial conduction are more likely to develop symptoms of pacemaker syndrome.[S6.4.4.1-9,S6.4.] 4.1-10 If the risk of pacemaker syndrome seems likely because of frequent sinus bradycardia and a high likelihood of frequent pacing, then a ventricular lead only device will probably be inadequate. Pacemaker syndrome was diagnosed in.18% of patients with the single chamber ventricular pacing mode in the MOST trial; however, ultimately a total of 31.4% had crossed over to dual chamber pacing.[S6.4.4.1-2,S6.4.4.1-9] Predictors

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e178

  • included a lower intrinsic sinus rate and a higher programmed pacing rate.[S6.4.4.1-9] Similarly, a 26% crossover rate from the VVI to DDD pacing mode was seen in the PASE trial with predictors of pacemaker syndrome including decreased systolic blood pressure during pacing and use of beta blockers.[S6.4.4.1-1,S6.4.4.1-10] Although there was a lower crossover rate in CTOPP and UKPace (approximately 3%), these patients would have required a system revision to a dual chamber system rather than reprogramming the pacing mode.[S6.4.4.1-3,S6.4.4.1-8] Therefore, in patients likely to develop pacemaker syndrome symptoms, a dual chamber device is preferred to avoid an additional procedure to revise the device in the future.
  1. The deleterious effects of chronic RV pacing have been demonstrated in various studies, although only a minority of chronically RV paced individuals will develop ventricular dysfunction or heart failure symptoms.[S6.4.4.1-7,S6.4.4.]
  • 1-34—S6.4.4.1-36 The DAVID (Dual Chamber and VVI

Implantable Defibrillator) trial, a defibrillator trial comparing dual chamber pacing at 70 bpm to “back-up” pacing at 40 bpm, found that ICD patients without a pacing indication had an increased combined endpoint of death and hospitalization with dual chamber pacing.[S6.4.4.1-7] Some studies have suggested that the risk of RV pacing induced cardiomyopathy increases when RV pacing exceeds 40% or perhaps as low as 20%.[S6.4.4.1-6,S6.4.4.1-34,S6.4.4.1-37] The BLOCK HF trial (Biventricular Versus Right Ventricular Pacing in Heart Failure Patients With Atrioventricular Block), which compared CRT and RV pacing in patients with an LVEF of 50% and atrioventricular block, showed a significant reduction in the combined primary endpoint of an increase in left ventricular end-systolic volume index by 15%, a heart failure urgent visit, or death. Although some patients had an LVEF 35%, most CRT-P subjects had an LVEF of.35% with a mean LVEF of 42.9% (approximately 60% of the total cohort). A mortality benefit was not shown, but there was a significant reduction in HF hospitalizations (HR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.49–0.94). Subsequent studies have also shown a reduction of left ventricular end-systolic volume and an improvement in LVEF with CRT compared with RV pacing in patients with relatively preserved LVEF.[S6.4.4.1-15,]

S6.4.4.1-19,S6.4.4.1-21,S6.4.4.1-36 In patients with AF who undergo atrioventricular node ablation to control rapid ventricular rates, physiologic pacing (CRT or His bundle) was associated with significant improvements in patient-centered outcomes such as 6-minute walk distances and QOL compared with RV pacing.[S6.4.4.1-19] An analysis by the evidence review committee suggests that there may be some benefit associated with physiologic ventricular activation by CRT or His bundle pacing.[S6.4.4.1-19]

  1. Predictors of RV pacing cardiomyopathy include a lower baseline LVEF and a higher percentage of RV pacing.[S6.4.] 4.1-34,S6.4.4.1-37 Some studies showed that the risk of RV pacing induced cardiomyopathy increases when RV pacing exceeds 40% or perhaps as low as 20%.[S6.4.4.1-6,] S6.4.4.1-34,S6.4.4.1-37 The MOST study (Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study), an RCT looking at dual chamber pacing in SND patients, showed that RV pacing at least 40% of the time led to a 2.6-fold increase in HF hospitalizations.[S6.4.4.1-6] Although not directly comparable because it enrolled patients with an LVEF,40%, an analysis of the DAVID trial also found the cutoff of 40% pacing as a predictor of increased HF adverse events.[S6.4.4.1-38] Although there is unlikely a precise value for RV pacing burden where adverse remodeling occurs in all pacemaker patients, a cutoff of at least 40% RV pacing is where increases in left ventricular end-systolic volume index and decreases in LVEF have been demonstrated.[S6.4.4.1-11,S6.]

4.4.1-13,S6.4.4.1-18,S6.4.4.1-39,S6.4.4.1-40 In patients with an LVEF of.50%, CRT has not been associated with increased exertional capacity or improved QOL compared with RV pacing.[S6.4.4.1-15,S6.4.4.1-16,S6.4.4.1-20,] S6.4.4.1-21,S6.4.4.1-36 Although the BLOCK-HF trial demon-

strated benefit with CRT compared with RV pacing, the benefit was attributable to improved LV function with CRT rather than worsened LV function with RV paving and algorithms that minimize ventricular pacing were unavailable.[S6.4.4.1-41]

  1. His bundle pacing is another promising pacing option because it prevents or mitigates the ventricular dyssynchrony and mechanical adverse remodeling observed with RV pacing.[S6.4.4.1-23] Two small crossover studies showed mixed results in terms of improvement in New York Heart Association class, 6MHW, and LVEF but overall seem to show a reduction in left ventricular endsystolic volume index and improvement in LVEF.[S6.4.4.] 1-22,S6.4.4.1-25 One nonrandomized study did show a reduction in HF hospitalizations compared to RV pacing in the group pacing.40%.[S6.4.4.1-24] A recent study found that His bundle pacing was associated with a significant decrease in heart failure hospitalizations particularly in those patients with ventricular pacing.20% compared with RV pacing.[S6.4.4.1-42] Although a progressive increase in thresholds was identified in a small number of patients, His bundle pacing has been shown to be feasible in patients after atrioventricular nodal ablation.[S6.4.4.1-42,S6.4.4.]
  • 1-43 More studies are needed to better characterize His bundle pacing and compare it to RV and CRT pacing in atrioventricular block patients.
  1. In patients with permanent AF with no plans to attempt rhythm control, there is no need to pace the atrium and no benefit to sensing the atrial activity. Given that dual chamber systems have a higher peri-operative complication rate as well as a higher, long-term complication

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e179

rate,[S6.4.4.1-8,S6.4.4.1-26,S6.4.4.1-27] exposing the patient to the risk of an additional lead without any potential benefit does not make clinical sense. In a large Dutch pacemaker registry looking at pacemaker implants from 2003 to 2007, and complications within 2 months of implant, a HR of 3.09 for dual chamber pacemakers compared with single chamber was seen.[S6.4.4.1-27] In contrast to new implants, if the patient already has an existing dual chamber system, and subsequently develops persistent AF, it may be reasonable to use another dual chamber device at the subsequent generator change as an alternative to capping the atrial lead to allow future attempts for rhythm control and because of the sparse data on the safety of MRI in the setting of abandoned leads.[S6.4.4.1-44]

7. Conduction Disorders (With 1:1 Atrioventricular Conduction)

This section focuses on QRS abnormalities caused by fascicular blocks and bundle branch blocks caused by delayed or blocked conduction within 1 of the branches of the HisPurkinje system, which consists of the division of the His bundle into left and right bundle branches, followed by division of the left bundle into anterior and posterior fascicles. The combination of delayed or blocked conduction of the right bundle branch and 1 of the left bundle’s fascicles is denoted bifascicular block (which also includes LBBB). Although first-degree atrioventricular block is more accurately a conduction disorder rather than atrioventricular block, for historical reasons full discussion and

recommendations on this condition are provided in the section on atrioventricular block.

7.1. Pathophysiology

The normal conduction axis consists of the sinus node, atrial muscle, atrioventricular node, His bundle, bundle branches, fascicles, Purkinje fibers, and ventricular muscle. The pathophysiology involved in conduction disease may be developmental, hereditary/genetic, metabolic, infectious, inflammatory, infiltrative, traumatic, ischemic, malignant, or degenerative. In general, it may be helpful to characterize the process as static or progressive.

7.2. Etiology/Classification

There are a number of possible etiologies for conduction disorders with 1:1 atrioventricular condition that the clinician should consider (Table S3 in Web Supplement).

7.3. Clinical Presentation

Isolated fascicular and bundle branch blocks are rarely associated with symptoms on their own although their presence may be a marker for underlying structural heart disease and cardiac dyssynchrony from LBBB may cause symptoms particularly in the setting of reduced left ventricular function. The presence or absence of symptoms potentially referable to intermittent bradycardia will usually guide evaluation of the patient with fascicular or bundle branch block.

7.4. Evaluation of Conduction Disorders

Recommendations for Evaluation of Conduction Disorders (With 1:1 Atrioventricular Conduction and Normal PR Interval) Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 41 and 42.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients with newly detected LBBB, a transthoracic echocardiogram to exclude structural heart disease is recommended.S7.4-1—S7.4-3
IC-LD2. In symptomatic patients with conduction system disease, in whom atrioventricular block is suspected, ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring is useful.S7.4-4—S7.4-11
IIaB-NR3. In selected patients presenting with intraventricular conduction disorders other than LBBB, transthoracic echocardiography is reasonable if structural heart disease is suspected.S7.4-3,S7.4-12,S7.4-13
IIaB-NR4. In patients with symptoms suggestive of intermittent bradycardia (e.g., lightheadedness, syncope), with
conduction system disease identifed by ECG and no demonstrated atrioventricular block, an EPS is reasonable.S7.4-14
IIaC-LD5. In selected patients with LBBB in whom structural heart disease is suspected and echocardiogram is
unrevealing, advanced imaging (e.g., cardiac MRI, computed tomography, or nuclear studies) is reasonable.S7.4-15
IIbC-LD6. In selected asymptomatic patients with extensive conduction system disease (bifascicular or trifascicular
block), ambulatory electrocardiographic recording may be considered to document suspected higher degree of atrioventricular block.S7.4-4,S7.4-6
IIbC-LD7. In selected asymptomatic patients with LBBB in whom ischemic heart disease is suspected, stress testing with imaging may be considered.S7.4-2

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e180

Synopsis

Ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring can help establish a symptom-rhythm correlation or document previously unknown pathologic atrioventricular block. Cohort studies have generally demonstrated an association between LBBB, but not RBBB, presence and the development of coronary disease and heart failure.[S7.4-1][—][S7.4-3,S7.4-16] Nonspecific intraventricular conduction delay was a marker for poorer prognosis in 1 study but in another study was not found to be an independent predictor of mortality in the absence of coronary artery disease.[S7.4-17,S7.4-18] Thus, the threshold for further imaging or functional study is lower in patients with LBBB and echocardiogram, cardiac MR, and stress testing may be potentially useful. An EPS has a low specificity and sensitivity overall but may be helpful in selected patients with demonstrated conduction abnormalities in whom other testing has been unrevealing. A proposed algorithm for evaluating patients with conduction disorders is shown in Figure 8.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In patients in whom structural heart disease is suspected, an echocardiogram may uncover treatable disease, or impact management decisions such as cardiac resynchronization device placement. The presence of LBBB on ECG markedly increases the likelihood that left ventricular systolic dysfunction will be diagnosed by echocardiogram.[S7.4-3]

  2. Electrocardiography is the primary method of diagnosing potential conduction disorders. Recording duration may vary from a 10-second ECG through continuous ambulatory recordings of various (24-, 48-, 72-hour) durations to event monitors or implantable loop recorders, aiming to uncover a symptom-rhythm correlation for patients with fatigue, dizziness, or syncope suspected of having atrioventricular block or SND in addition to their manifest conduction system disease.[S7.4-19] Such devices are also often capable of automated detection and storage of bradycardic or tachycardic events, although these detections are influenced by recording quality (artifacts). In addition to prescribed medical devices, direct-to-consumer devices are becoming increasingly available, particularly in association with personal electronics.

  3. Patients with RBBB or intraventricular conduction delay on ECG also have increased risk of left ventricular systolic dysfunction compared with those with completely normal ECGs, yet the yield is lower than those patients with LBBB.[S7.4-12] Echocardiography can identify various structural cardiac abnormalities underlying conduction disturbance, including cardiomyopathy, valvular

  • heart disease, congenital anomalies, tumors, infections, infiltrative processes, immunologically mediated conditions, and diseases of the great vessels and pericardium.[S7.4-13]
  1. An EPS may provide acute diagnostic information, avoiding the potential risks of delayed diagnosis with outpatient monitoring strategies, but has variable sensitivity depending on the presentation and does impart a small procedural risk. In patients with fascicular or bundle branch block, a prolonged HV interval at EPS predicts a higher risk for complete heart block.[S7.4-14] In another study, firstdegree atrioventricular block or bundle branch block were markers for abnormal EPS findings in patients with syncope.[S7.4-20]

  2. Cardiac MRI may be considered in selected patients with LBBB and normal left ventricular function by echocardiography where sarcoidosis, connective tissue disease, myocarditis, or other dilated cardiomyopathies are suspected on clinical grounds. In 1 study, cardiac MRI detected subclinical cardiomyopathy in one-third of patients with asymptomatic LBBB and a normal echocardiogram.[S7.4-15] In another study of patients with connective tissue disease, new onset LBBB, and normal transthoracic echocardiograms, cardiac MRI identified significant abnormalities in 42% of patients.[S7.4-21]

  3. Ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring can be used to document clinically significant arrhythmias in asymptomatic patients as well. Most current monitoring systems will automatically store clinically abnormal rhythms in addition to patient-triggered recordings. Selected patients with conduction system disease may benefit from such screening, even in the absence of significant symptoms such as syncope.[S7.4-4,S7.4-6] However, progression of LBBB and bifascicular block to atrioventricular block and bradycardia is low, approximately 1% per year, with approximately half of the patients presenting with syncope and the other half with a constellation of symptoms including fatigue, chest pain, or dyspnea.[S7.4-14] Most studies have reported that LBBB is associated with higher mortality than other forms of conduction disorders.[S7.4-2,S7.4-22]

  4. The threshold to consider stress testing is lower in patients with LBBB and concern for ischemia as well, given the higher probability of associated cardiac disease.[S7.] 4-23—S7.4-27 If LBBB is present, ischemic electrocardiographic changes are more difficult to interpret, and an imaging component is necessary.[S7.4-2] Rate related LBBB has also been reported as a possible cause of nonischemic chest pain.[S7.4-28] Exercise induced LBBB, but not exerciseinducedRBBB, hasbeenassociated with increased risk of death and cardiac events.[S7.4-29,S7.4-30]

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e181

----- Start of picture text ----- Evidence for conduction disorder Reversible or Physiologic cause Yes Treat underlying cause as No needed, e.g., ischemia Treatment effective or not necessary Genetic disorder associated Yes No with conduction disease Observe Y es No Conduction disorders Suspicion treatment algorithm* for infiltrative CM, endocarditis, ACHD, etc. Advanced imaging† Yes (Class IIb) No Type of conduction disorder RBBB or fascicular LBBB block Transthoracic Transthoracic echocardiography echocardiography (Class I) (Class IIa) Treat identified abnormalities Symptoms suggestive of intermittent bradycardia Y es No Ambulatory ECG Monitoring‡ Ambulatory ECG Monitoring§ (Class I) (Class IIb) Electrophysiology study Observe (Class IIa) ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 8 Evaluation of Conduction Disorders Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. See Section 7.4. for discussion. *Refer to Section 7.5., Figure 9.[†] Advanced imaging could include magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, or transesophageal echocardiography.[‡] Monitor choice based on the frequency of symptoms.[x] Extensive conduction disease (e.g., first-degree atrioventricular block combined with LBBB). ACHD 5 adult congenital heart disease; CM 5 cardiomyopathy; ECG 5 electrocardiogram/electrocardiographic; LBBB 5 left bundle branch block; RBBB 5 right bundle branch block.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e182

7.5. Management of Conduction Disorders (With 1:1 Atrioventricular Conduction)

Recommendations for Management of Conduction Disorders (With 1:1 Atrioventricular Conduction and Normal PR Intervals) Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 41, 42, and 43.

CORLOERecommendations
IC-LD1. In patients with syncope and bundle branch block who are found to have an HV interval 70 ms or greater or evidence of infranodal block at EPS, permanent pacing is recommendedS7.5-1,S7.5-2
IC-LD2. In patients with alternating bundle branch block, permanent pacing is recommended.S7.5-3
IIaC-LD3. In patients with Kearns-Sayre syndrome and conduction disorders, permanent pacing is reasonable,
with additional defbrillator capability if appropriate and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected.S7.5-4,S7.5-5
IIbC-LD4. In patients with Anderson-Fabry disease and QRS prolongation greater than 110 ms, permanent pacing, with
additional defbrillator capability if needed and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected, may be considered.S7.5-6,S7.5-7
IIbC-LD5. In patients with heart failure, a mildly to moderately reduced LVEF (36%-50%), and LBBB (QRS‡150 ms), CRT may be considered.S7.5-8,S7.5-9
III: HarmB-NR6. In asymptomatic patients with isolated conduction disease and 1:1 atrioventricular conduction, permanent pacing is not indicated (in the absence of other indications for pacing).S7.5-10—S7.5-15

Synopsis

Management of conduction disorders with 1:1 atrioventricular conduction with a normal PR interval requires a patient-centered approach with assessment of any known underlying heart disease, symptomatology and the baseline ECG (bundle branch block, nonspecific intraventricular delay, fascicular block in isolation or in combination) (Figure 9). Pacing therapy can be considered in the presence or absence of symptoms if an underlying disorder associated with progressive disease is present such as Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy or Kearns-Sayre syndrome. True alternating bundle branch block (QRS complexes with alternating LBBB and RBBB morphologies) is evidence for significant infranodal disease and a high likelihood for developing sudden onset of complete heart block with a slow or absent ventricular escape rate.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In a patient with syncope, the presence of bundle branch block on ECG is a predictor for abnormal conduction properties identified at EPS.[S7.5-16] However, for patients with bundle branch block, the underlying cause for syncope may be related to vasodepressor mechanisms rather than heart block mediated bradycardia. An EPS can be used to evaluate atrioventricular conduction and identify the presence and extent of infranodal disease. Permanent pacing has been recommended for patients with syncope and HV intervals 70 ms or frank infranodal block.[S7.5-17]

  2. Alternating bundle branch block (QRS complexes with alternating LBBB and RBBB morphologies) implies unstable conduction disease in both conduction bundles, and patients with this electrocardiographic pattern should receive a pacemaker because of high risk of developing complete atrioventricular block.[S7.5-3]

  3. In Kearns-Sayre syndrome, a mitochondrial genetic disorder with progressive external ophthalmoplegia and myopathy, there is a high incidence of atrioventricular block and sudden cardiac death.[S7.5-4,S7.5-5] In a series of 35 patients with Kearns-Sayre syndrome, 66% had conduction delays, and 4 patients had sudden cardiac death.[S7.5-4]

  4. Anderson Fabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder. In 1 cohort study of 189 patients 6.3% of patients had permanent pacing for bradycardia attributable to atrioventricular block or SND and an additional 2.6% of patients underwent ICD implantation.[S7.5-6,S7.5-7] A QRS duration of.110 ms was an independent predictor for requiring pacing therapy (HR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.09; p50.001; c50.726). Myocardial scarring and sudden death have been reported in patients with Anderson Fabry disease.[S7.5-18,S7.5-19]

  5. In 1 retrospective study of 1,436 patients with and LVEF of 36% to 50% and LBBB who were matched to a group of patients without conduction disease, LBBB was associated with significantly worse mortality (HR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.00–1.36) and a decrease in LVEF to 35% (HR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.09–1.63).[S7.5-8] PROSPECT (Predictors of Response to CRT Trial) enrolled patients with LVEF of 35%, QRS interval.130 ms and Class III/IV heart failure. In a post hoc analysis, patients with an LVEF of.35% (when assessed by the core laboratory) had similar clinical and echocardiographic responses to CRT compared with patients with an LVEF of 35%.[S7.5-9] In the REVERSE (Resynchronization Reverses Remodeling in Systolic Left Ventricular Dysfunction) trial, patients could be enrolled if they had New York Heart Association class I/II heart failure symptoms and an LVEF of,40% (although mean LVEF was 27%). Patients with QRS

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e183

----- Start of picture text ----- Conduction disorder: BBB or fascicular block with 1:1 AV conduction* Syncope, BBB, and HV >70ms Permanent pacing No Yes (Class I) Alternating BBB Permanent pacing Yes No (Class I) LVEF 36-50%, LBBB, QRS >150 ms, and Class II or greater HF symptoms Cardiac resynchronization Yes therapy No (Class IIb) Symptoms suggest intermittent AV block? Yes No AV block diagnostic Observation algorithm † ----- End of picture text -----

Figure 9 Management of Conduction Disorders Algorithm. Colors correspond to Class of Recommendation in Table 2. *For severe first-degree atrioventricular block or first-degree atrioventricular block with an accompanying neuromuscular disease, also refer to Section 6.4., Figure 7, the atrioventricular block algorithm.[†] See Section 4.3.2., Figure 3. AV 5 atrioventricular; BBB 5 bundle branch block; HF 5 heart failure; LBBB 5 left bundle branch block; LVEF 5 left ventricular ejection fraction.

prolongation and LBBB morphology were markers for a clinical benefit with CRT.[S7.5-20]

  1. Several studies from the 1970s demonstrated no benefit from prophylactic pacing in asymptomatic patients with conduction disorders (combined RBBB and left anterior fascicular block, or bundle branch block) even in the presence of infranodal disease.[S7.5-10,S7.5-11] Although PPM implant is a relatively low-risk cardiac procedure, complications including death range from 3% to 7% and there are significant long-term implications for pacing systems that use transvenous leads.[S7.5-12][—][S7.5-15]

8. Special Populations

receive temporary epicardial pacing wires at the time of cardiac surgery. These are suture-sized wires placed on the atrial and/or ventricular epicardium with the proximal end brought out through the skin. The temporary wires are used if necessary for rate support or for maintaining atrioventricular synchrony and later removed by pulling them out from their exit at the skin. Bleeding from the removal of temporary wires can occasionally be the cause of cardiac tamponade, late surgical exploration, and even death.[S8.1-1] The need for temporary pacing after cardiac surgery is highly variable (between 0.8% and 24%) and primarily depends on the type of cardiac surgery, as well as a number of risk factors such as: older age, AF, prior surgery, preoperative renal failure, and active endocarditis.[S8.1-2][—][S8.1-4]

8.1. Perioperative Management

Management of bradycardia after cardiac surgery is primarily based on historical surgical practice. Typically, all patients

8.1.1. Patients at Risk for Bradycardia During Noncardiac Surgery or Procedures

Recommendations for Patients at Risk for Bradycardia During Noncardiac Surgery or Procedures Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 42, 44, and 45.

CORLOERecommendations
IIaB-NR1. In patients who are thought to be at high risk for the development of intraoperative or
periprocedural bradycardia because of patient characteristics or procedure type, placement of transcutaneous pacing pads is reasonable.S8.1.1-1—S8.1.1-3
III: HarmB-NR2. In patients with LBBB who require pulmonary artery catheterization for intraoperative monitoring, routine prophylactic temporary transvenous pacing should not be performed.S8.1.1-4,S8.1.1-5

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e184

Synopsis

The development of significant bradycardia during surgery can be attributable to both patient-related and procedurerelated factors. Several retrospective studies have identified age (.60-65 years of age), comorbidities (American Society of Anesthesia Class III or IV), lower heart rates (,60 bpm) or blood pressure (,110/60 mm Hg) at baseline, and use of concomitant drugs such as beta blockers or drugs that block the renin-angiotensin system as risk factors for the development of intraoperative bradycardia and hypotension in patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.[S8.1.1-6][—][S8.1.1-8] Because the right bundle branch is located near the endocardial surface of the RV, transient RBBB can occur during placement of pulmonary artery catheters for use during intraoperative monitoring.[S8.1.1-1,S8.1.1-4,S8.1.1-5]

A number of case reports and small series have identified several noncardiac procedures that are more likely to be associated with bradycardia. In particular, procedures that could potentially activate the trigeminal cardiac reflex or vagus nerve, for example, maxillofacial surgeries or carotid endarterectomy or stenting, or other neurosurgical procedures that involve manipulation of the spine or dura mater have been reported to cause bradycardia.[S8.1.1-3,S8.1.1-9][—][S8.1.1-12] Others have identified peritoneal insufflation as a possible critical period during abdominal surgery associated with significant bradycardia.[S8.1.1-13,S8.1.1-14]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Older patients with comorbidities (American Society of Anesthesia Class III or IV) and low heart rates at baseline are at higher risk for the development of intraoperative bradycardia.[S8.1.1-6][—][S8.1.1-8] In the setting of noncardiac surgery, intraoperative bradycardia is most commonly attributable to SND and only rarely attributable to worsening atrioventricular conduction.[S8.1.1-1,S8.1.1-8,S8.1.] 1-15 Certain surgical procedures such as carotid artery endarterectomy or stenting have been associated with periods of bradycardia.[S8.1.1-3,S8.1.1-9][—][S8.1.1-12] Additionally, critical periods during surgery such as abdominal insufflation during laparoscopic surgeries or manipulation of regions innervated by the trigeminal nerve have been reported to be associated with

bradycardia.[S8.1.1-13,S8.1.1-14] In a study of 30 patients undergoing carotid angioplasty and stenting who underwent prophylactic transcutaneous pacing because of a high risk for angioplasty-related bradycardia, temporary transcutaneous pacing was used in 23 patients and was effective for eliminating bradycardia in all patients.[S8.1.1-2] However, routine placement of transcutaneous pacing pads in patients solely for the presence of conduction disorders does not provide additional benefit.[S8.1.1-15]

  1. Although complete heart block can occur in the setting of pulmonary artery catheter placement in a patient with underlying LBBB, the incidence is low.[S8.1.1-4,S8.1.1-5] Several studies have reported increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias with temporary pacing.[S8.1.1-16,S8.1.1-17] Prophylactic transvenous pacing is not recommended, but the clinician should consider the likelihood of complete heart block if a pulmonary artery catheter is required for intraoperative monitoring and be prepared to manage this complication with rapid initiation of transvenous pacing or immediate transcutaneous pacing if sustained rate support is required.

8.1.2. Postoperative Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders After Cardiac Surgery

The risks of bradycardia after cardiac surgery are largely related to the type of cardiac surgery and the anatomical relationship to the conduction system. Because of this, this section has been subdivided by specific cardiac surgeries and conditions: coronary artery bypass, open valve surgery, including aortic, tricuspid and mitral valves, transcatheter aortic valve placement; congenital heart surgery; heart transplant, surgical myectomy, alcohol septal ablation, and postsurgical sequelae of medical AF treatment. Recovery of atrioventricular conduction after surgery occurs in approximately 12% to 13% of patients within 6 months and depends on the surgery, preoperative conduction abnormalities, presence of endocarditis, and whether transient postoperative atrioventricular conduction is observed S8.1.2-1,S8.1.2-2 (Online Data Supplement 46).

8.1.2.1. Coronary Artery Bypass

Recommendations for Pacing After Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 47.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients who have new postoperative SND or atrioventricular block associated with persistent symptoms or
hemodynamic instability that does not resolve after isolated coronary artery bypass surgery, permanent pacing is recommended before discharge.S8.1.2.1-1—S8.1.2.1-9
IIaB-NR2. In patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass surgery, routine placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires is reasonable.S8.1.2.1-5,S8.1.2.1-10,S8.1.2.1-11
IIbC-EO3. In patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery who will likely require future CRT or ventricular pacing,
intraoperative placement of a permanent epicardial left ventricular lead may be considered.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e185

Synopsis

The incidence of conduction defects after isolated coronary artery bypass graft has ranged from 2% to 58% and has been related to factors such as chronic degenerative disease of the heart, direct surgical damage to the conduction system, myocardial ischemia or inadequate myocardial protection. Advances in surgical practice may be decreasing the incidence of conduction defects but have been unable to eliminate it in any series.[S8.1.2.1-1][—][S8.1.2.1-4,S8.1.2.1-6][—][S8.1.2.1-9,S8.1.2.1-12]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. The frequency with which patients develop conduction abnormalities needing permanent pacing after isolated coronary artery bypass surgery has varied and may be decreasing over time.[S8.1.2.1-1][—][S8.1.2.1-7,S8.1.2.1-9,S8.1.2.1-12] If conduction abnormalities resulting in symptomatic bradycardia are already present preoperatively, they will generally not resolve with coronary artery bypass grafting.[S8.1.2.1-8] In part to help facilitate postoperative recovery (e.g., moving out of the intensive care setting, ambulation and the initiation of anticoagulation when necessary), patients in whom new onset SND or advanced primary atrioventricular block develops and does not improve should undergo permanent pacer placement after isolated coronary artery bypass surgery. Specific timing of pacemaker implant has not been formally studied and will always depend on the individual clinical situation but 5 to 7 days after surgery is reasonable.[S8.1.2.1-1]

  2. The routine placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires at the time of isolated coronary artery bypass has been standard surgical practice. There is a very small risk of significant bleeding leading to morbidity and even mortality after their removal, but this risk is offset

  • by the frequent and unpredictable need for the use of temporary pacing.[S8.1.2.1-5,S8.1.2.1-10,S8.1.2.1-11] Some patients are at very low risk for needing temporary pacing after isolated coronary artery bypass. In 1 retrospective analysis, patients without diabetes mellitus, preoperative arrhythmia, or the requirement for pacing while coming off cardiopulmonary bypass had only a 2.6% need for postsurgical temporary pacing compared with 8.6% of patients in the entire cohort.[S8.1.2.1-10] Patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting may also warrant special consideration for a strategy that does not use temporary pacing wires.[S8.1.2.1-13] However, no large study has clearly identified a benefit to this approach. Temporary cardiac resynchronization using right atrial, right ventricular, and left ventricular pacing wires has been proposed for improving cardiac hemodynamic parameters in the immediate postoperative period in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction with mixed results though may provide benefits in patients with accompanying LBBB.[S8.1.2.1-14][—][S8.1.2.1-16]
  1. Surgical left ventricular lead placement is performed as a stand-alone procedure when placement via coronary sinus is unsuccessful.[S8.1.2.1-17] If a patient has an indication for cardiac resynchronization before cardiac surgery, epicardial placement of a nonapical, lateral left ventricular lead at the time of cardiac surgery may offer future benefit without significant risk of harm. Although traditionally considered a contraindication, it may be that MRI can be performed safely in selected patients with abandoned leads under the auspices of specialized protocols.[S8.1.2.] 1-18—S8.1.2.1-20 At the time of a future CRT procedure, the operator can implant a coronary sinus lead or use the capped epicardial lead if necessary.

8.1.2.2. Surgery for Atrial Fibrillation

Recommendations for Pacing After Surgery for Atrial Fibrillation Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 48.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients undergoing surgery for AF, routine placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires is recommended.S8.1.2.2-1—S8.1.2.2-4
IB-NR2. In patients who have new postoperative SND or atrioventricular block associated with symptoms or
hemodynamic instability that does not resolve after surgery for AF, permanent pacing is recommended before discharge.S8.1.2.2-1—S8.1.2.2-4
IIbC-EO3. In patients undergoing surgery for AF who will likely require future CRT or ventricular pacing, intraoperative
placement of a permanent epicardial left ventricular lead may be considered.

Synopsis

AF is present in 30% to 50% of patients undergoing valve surgery and is associated with reduced survival and increased risk of stroke.[S8.1.2.2-2] Successful surgical correction of AF is associated with improved patient survival compared with patients who have recurrent AF.[S8.1.2.2-5] Up to 65% of patients undergoing mitral surgery with AF undergo surgery directed toward management of AF.[S8.1.2.2-6] A recent single center

study found reported that 11% of patients undergoing a Cox Maze IV procedure in addition to mitral valve surgery required postoperative PPM implantation.[S8.1.2.2-4]

The data on whether surgery for AF is associated with an increased risk for postoperative bradycardia and PPM implant are mixed, in part caused by the significant evolution in the lesion set and surgical technique.[S8.1.2.2-1][—][S8.1.2.2-4] An analysis of the STS registry and an RCT found that adding

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e186

ablation for AF was associated with an increased likelihood of PPM implantation.[S8.1.2.2-1,S8.1.2.2-2] However, a metaanalysis of 16 RCTs found no difference in need for permanent pacer in patients randomized to additional surgery for – 5 AF (OR: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.51 1.51; p 0.64).[S8.1.2.2-3]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires at the time of surgery for AF is routine practice. The risk of postsurgical bradycardia is relatively frequent, and no study has advocated a selective approach to temporary pacing wire placement.[S8.1.2.2-1][—][S8.1.2.2-4]

  2. TheneedforPPMplacementiscommonaftersurgeryforAF usually for SND because atrioventricular block is uncommon.[S8.1.2.2-1][—][S8.1.2.2-4] In part to facilitate recovery after surgery (e.g., moving out of the intensive care setting, ambulation and the initiation of anticoagulation), patients in whom new onset SND (and in rare cases atrioventricular block) develops and does not improve should undergo permanent pacer placement before discharge. Specific timing of pacemaker implant has not been formally studied and will always depend on the individual clinical situation but 5 to 7 days after surgery is probably reasonable.

  3. Surgical left ventricular lead placement is performed as a stand-alone procedure when placement via coronary sinus is unsuccessful.[S8.1.2.2-7] If a patient has an indication for cardiac resynchronization before cardiac surgery, an epicardial placement of a left ventricular lead at the time of surgery for AF may offer future benefit without significant risk of harm. In addition, placement of a nonapical, lateral epicardial lead will allow more pacing options if

the patient undergoes a future atrioventricular nodal ablation. Although traditionally considered a contraindication, it may be that MRI can be performed safely in selected patients with abandoned leads under the auspices of specialized protocols.[S8.1.2.2-8][—][S8.1.2.2-10] At the time of a future CRT procedure the operator can implant a coronary sinus lead or use the capped epicardial lead if necessary.

8.1.2.3. Valvular Surgery

There are many types of valve surgeries. In adult cardiac surgery, the most commonly affected valves are the aortic, the mitral and the tricuspid. The pulmonary valve is rarely a target of intervention and when it is, does not usually disturb cardiac conduction. Approximately 5% of the roughly 100,000 patients annually undergoing valve surgery in North America have required pacemaker implantation before hospital discharge.[S8.1.2.3-1] Several papers have identified a myriad of risk factors associated with PPM implant after valve surgery that include preoperative RBBB, multivalve surgery particularly those that included the tricuspid valve, preoperative LBBB, preoperative PR interval.200 ms, prior valve surgery, age.70 years, reoperations, longer cumulative cross-clamp times, and absence of preoperative sinus rhythm.[S8.1.2.3-2,S8.1.2.3-3] The rates of PPM implant after valve surgery vary widely and depend on the operation. Pacemaker implantation rates for single and multiple valves were as follows: mitral alone 3.5%, aortic alone 5.1%, tricuspid alone 12%, aortic plus mitral 10%, mitral plus tricuspid 16%, and combined aortic, mitral, and tricuspid 25%.[S8.1.2.3-2,S8.1.2.3-4]

8.1.2.3.1. Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement or Repair

Recommendations for Pacing After Aortic Valve Surgery

Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 48.

CORLOERecommendations
IC-LD1. In patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement or repair, routine placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires is recommended.S8.1.2.3.1-1—S8.1.2.3.1-3
IB-NR2. In patients who have new postoperative SND or atrioventricular block associated with persistent symptoms or
hemodynamic instability that does not resolve after aortic valve replacement, permanent pacing is recommended before discharge.S8.1.2.3.1-1—S8.1.2.3.1-5
IIbC-EO3. In patients undergoing aortic valve surgery who will likely require future CRT or ventricular pacing,
intraoperative placement of a permanent epicardial left ventricular lead may be considered.

Synopsis

The most common injury to the conduction system after surgical aortic valve replacement is injury to the common bundle from edema, removal of calcium, or deeply placed sutures.

The requirement for pacemaker after aortic valve replacement is common, ranging between 3% and 8.5%: the highest risk is likely in patients with preoperative conduction disturbance.[S8.1.2.3.1-1][—][S8.1.2.3.1-3] Available data suggest that most patients do not recover atrioventricular conduction.[S8.1.2.3.] 1-4,S8.1.2.3.1-6 One study found that patients who received a

pacemaker within 30 days after aortic valve replacement had a higher, long-term risk of death.[S8.1.2.3.1-5]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires at the time of aortic valve surgery is routine practice. The risk of postsurgical bradycardia is high, and no study has advocated a selective approach to temporary pacing wire placement.[S8.1.2.3.1-1][—][S8.1.2.3.1-3] Temporary cardiac resynchronization using right atrial, right ventricular,

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e187

  • and left ventricular pacing wires has been proposed for improving cardiac hemodynamic parameters in the immediate postoperative period in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction with mixed results though may provide benefits in patients with accompanying LBBB.[S8.1.2.3.1-4][—][S8.1.2.3.1-9]
  1. The need for PPM placement is frequent after aortic valve replacement.[S8.1.2.3.1-1][—][S8.1.2.3.1-3] Because the aortic valve is anatomically located near the bundle of His, while the mitral valve is close to the atrioventricular node, atrioventricular block after aortic valve surgery has a lower threshold for recommending pacing compared with the mitral valve, and conduction is less likely to resume.[S8.1.2.3.1-4,S8.1.2.3.1-6] This suggests that patients who have new atrioventricular block which does not resolve or SND should undergo PPM implantation before discharge for persistent symptomatic or hemodynamically
  • significant bradycardia. Specific timing of pacemaker implant has not been formally studied and will always depend on the individual clinical situation but 3 to 5 days after surgery is probably reasonable.
  1. Surgical left ventricular lead placement is performed as a stand-alone procedure when placement via coronary sinus is unsuccessful.[S8.1.2.3.1-10] If a patient has an indication for cardiac resynchronization before cardiac surgery, an epicardial placement of a nonapical, lateral left ventricular lead at the time of cardiac surgery may offer future benefit without significant risk of harm. Although traditionally considered a contraindication, it may be that MRI can be performed safely in selected patients with abandoned leads under the auspices of specialized protocols.[S8.1.2.3.] 1-11—S8.1.2.3.1-13 At the time of a future CRT procedure, the operator can implant a coronary sinus lead or use the capped epicardial lead if necessary.

8.1.2.3.2. Mitral Valve Surgery

Recommendations for Pacing After Mitral Valve Surgery

Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 48.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients who have new postoperative SND or atrioventricular block associated with persistent symptoms or
hemodynamic instability that does not resolve after mitral valve repair or replacement surgery, permanent pacing is recommended before discharge.S8.1.2.3.2-1,S8.1.2.3.2-2
IIaC-LD2. In patients undergoing mitral valve surgery, routine placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires is reasonable.S8.1.2.3.2-1—S8.1.2.3.2-3
IIbC-EO3. In patients undergoing surgical mitral valve repair or replacement who will likely require future CRT or
ventricular pacing, intraoperative placement of a permanent epicardial left ventricular lead may be
considered.

Synopsis

Incidence of new atrioventricular block has been reported in as high as 23.5% of patients undergoing mitral valve replacement or ring repair.[S8.1.2.3.2-1] In 1 pathologic study, 55 hearts from patients who had not undergone surgery were examined to evaluate the relationship between the atrioventricular node, atrioventricular nodal artery and mitral annulus.[S8.1.2.3.2-1] In the dissected hearts, 23% had an atrioventricular nodal artery that ran close to the mitral valve, suggesting that damage to the artery may play a role in the development of atrioventricular block after mitral valve surgery. The need for a PPM after mitral surgery ranges from 1% to 9%.[S8.1.2.3.2-1,S8.1.2.3.2-2,S8.1.]

2.3.2-4 The cause may be influenced by type surgery and may be lower in the repair population in whom an incomplete annuloplasty band could avoid injury to the atrioventricular nodal artery.[S8.1.2.3.2-2,S8.1.2.3.2-4]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. The need for PPM placement is common after mitral valve surgery.[S8.1.2.3.2-1,S8.1.2.3.2-2,S8.1.2.3.2-5] In part to facilitate postsurgical recovery (such as moving out of the intensive care setting, ambulation and the initiation of

anticoagulation), patients in whom new onset atrioventricular block or SND develops and does not improve should undergo permanent pacer placement before discharge for persistent symptomatic or hemodynamically significant bradycardia. Because mitral valve surgery involves injury of the atrioventricular node region rather than the His bundle injury associated with aortic valve surgery, the threshold for pacemaker implant is higher. Specific timing of pacemaker implant has not been formally studied and will always depend on the individual clinical situation but 5 to 7 days after mitral valve surgery is probably reasonable.

  1. Placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires at the time of mitral valve surgery is routine practice. The risk of postsurgical bradycardia is relatively frequent, and no study has advocated a selective approach to temporary pacing wire placement.[S8.1.2.3.2-1,S8.1.2.3.2-2] However, alternative pacing strategies using pacing pulmonary artery catheters have been described for patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve surgery.[S8.1.2.3.2-3] Temporary cardiac resynchronization using right atrial, right ventricular, and left ventricular pacing wires has been proposed for

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e188

improving cardiac hemodynamic parameters in the immediate postoperative period in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction with mixed results though may provide benefits in patients with accompanying LBBB.[S8.1.2.3.] 2-6—S8.1.2.3.2-8

  1. Surgical left ventricular lead placement is performed as a stand-alone procedure when placement via coronary sinus is unsuccessful.[S8.1.2.3.2-9] If a patient has an indication for cardiac resynchronization before cardiac surgery, an epicardial placement of a nonapical, lateral left ventricular

lead at the time of cardiac surgery may offer future benefit without significant risk of harm. Although traditionally considered a contraindication, it may be that MRI can be performed safely in selected patients with abandoned leads under the auspices of specialized protocols.[S8.1.2.3.] 2-10—S8.1.2.3.2-12 At the time of a future CRT procedure, the operator can implant a coronary sinus lead or use the capped epicardial lead if necessary.

8.1.2.3.3. Tricuspid Valve Surgery

Recommendations for Pacing After Tricuspid Valve Surgery Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 48.

CORLOERecommendations
IC-LD1. In patients undergoing tricuspid valve surgery, routine placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires is recommended.S8.1.2.3.3-1—S8.1.2.3.3-4
IB-NR2. In patients who have new postoperative SND or atrioventricular block associated with symptoms or
hemodynamic instability that does not resolve after tricuspid valve surgery, permanent pacing is recommended before discharge.S8.1.2.3.3-1—S8.1.2.3.3-4
IIaC-LD3. In patients who are undergoing tricuspid valve replacement or tricuspid repair with high risk for
postoperative atrioventricular block, intraoperative placement of permanent epicardial leads at the time of cardiac surgery is reasonable.S8.1.2.3.3-1—S8.1.2.3.3-5

Synopsis

The atrioventricular node is intimately related to the tricuspid valve, located between its anterior and septal leaflets; this makes the atrioventricular node particularly susceptible to injury with any tricuspid valve intervention. Surgeons have developed numerous repair techniques to avoid nodal injury, including the design of several incomplete tricuspid rings that have gaps between the anterior and septal leaflets. These techniques avoid suture placement in the area of the atrioventricular node, and thus its injury. The need for pacemaker after repair has been reported to be as low as 2.3%.[S8.1.2.3.3-1] However, because isolated tricuspid surgery is rare in the adult population, the exact incidence of conduction disorders attributable to isolated tricuspid intervention is difficult to ascertain. Several series report a much higher incidence, up to 22%.[S8.1.2.3.3-2,S8.1.2.3.3-4] Managing conduction abnormalities in this population are additionally complicated by an inability to use transvenous pacing leads in mechanical valves and their interference in the closure of bioprosthetic valves or native valves that have been repaired. Even in native valves, nearly one-quarter of patients suffer significant tricuspid regurgitation associated with placement of an endovascular right ventricular lead.[S8.1.2.3.3-5] In patients who need a pacemaker after repair, incidence of moderate to severe or severe tricuspid regurgitation is 42%.[S8.1.2.3.3-3]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Placement of temporary epicardial pacing wires at the time of tricuspid valve surgery is routine practice. The risk of postsurgical bradycardia is relatively frequent, and no study has advocated a selective approach to temporary pacing wire placement.[S8.1.2.3.3-1][—][S8.1.2.3.3-4]

  2. The need for PPM placement is frequent after tricuspid valve surgery.[S8.1.2.3.3-1][—][S8.1.2.3.3-4] In part to facilitate postsurgical recovery (such as moving out of the intensive care setting, ambulation and the initiation of anticoagulation), patients in whom new onset advanced primary atrioventricular block or SND develops and does not improve should undergo permanent pacer placement after open tricuspid valve surgery. Specific timing of pacemaker implant has not been formally studied and will always depend on the individual clinical situation but 3 to 5 days after surgery is probably reasonable. To minimize valve impingement in the setting of a repaired tricuspid valve, a transvalvular endocardial ventricular lead is ideally placed at the commissure between the anterior and septal tricuspid leaflets.

  3. The need for PPM placement is frequent after tricuspid valve surgery.[S8.1.2.3.3-1][—][S8.1.2.3.3-4] After repair or replacement, transvalvular endocardial ventricular lead placement can be successfully placed after tricuspid valve repair or bioprosthetic valve replacement but may cause severe tricuspid regurgitation.[S8.1.2.3.3-3,S8.1.2.3.3-5,] S8.1.2.3.3-6 Transvalvular, endocardial ventricular leads cannot be placed across mechanical valves in the tricuspid position. Patients who are undergoing tricuspid valve replacement or tricuspid repair with high risk for postoperative atrioventricular block should be strongly considered for permanent epicardial pacing leads at the time of cardiac surgery.[S8.1.2.3.3-7] Because epicardial leads can fail and subsequent placement of a right ventricular endocardial lead may be problematic in patients after tricuspid valve replacement, at the time of initial tricuspid

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e189

valve surgery, if possible, intraoperative implantation of several leads (nonapical, lateral left ventricular, right ventricular, and atrial leads) should be considered. Although traditionally considered a contraindication, it may be that MRI can be performed safely in selected patients with

abandoned leads under the auspices of specialized protocols.[S8.1.2.3.3-8][—][S8.1.2.3.3-10] If a PPM is required in the future, the operator can implant a coronary sinus lead or use the capped epicardial lead if necessary.

8.1.2.4. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Recommendations for Conduction Disturbances After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 49.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients who have new atrioventricular block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement associated with
symptoms or hemodynamic instability that does not resolve, permanent pacing is recommended before discharge.S8.1.2.4-1—S8.1.2.4-4
IIaB-NR2. In patients with new persistent bundle branch block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement, careful surveillance for bradycardia is reasonable.S8.1.2.4-5,S8.1.2.4-6
IIbB-NR3. In patients with new persistent LBBB after transcatheter aortic valve replacement, implantation of a PPM may be considered.S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-7—S8.1.2.4-10

Synopsis

At time of writing, the literature on conduction disturbance after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is replete with thousands of case series, multiple reports from larger registries, a few meta-analyses, and no prospective RCTs of PPM implantation. Before TAVR predictors for PPM implant include preexisting RBBB, increased prosthesis to left ventricular outflow tract ratio, and increased left ventricular end-diastolic diameter.[S8.1.2.4-8]

After TAVR, new LBBB occurs in 19% to 55% of patients S8.1.2.4-1,S8.1.2.4-3,S8.1.2.4-11 and new high-degree atrioventricular block in approximately 10% of patients.[S8.1.2.4-12] Up to half of new bundle branch block[S8.1.2.4-1] and complete heart block[S8.1.2.4-7] can be expected to resolve before discharge. Further, only half of patients with a new PPM after TAVR will be pacer dependent at follow-up although that does not necessarily imply that pacing is not needed, as intermittent atrioventricular block may be present.[S8.1.2.4-13] The likelihood of new conduction disturbances depends on patient and procedural factors.[S8.1.2.4-7,S8.1.2.4-8]

After TAVR, new RBBB is associated with increased risk of PPM implantation and increased late all-cause mortality and cardiac mortality independent on whether a new PPM was implanted.[S8.1.2.4-5,S8.1.2.4-8,S8.1.2.4-14,S8.1.2.4-15] Although most studies show that new LBBB after TAVR S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-9,S8.1.2.4-10 is associated with a higher risk of new PPM, studies are mixed as to whether new LBBB is a predictor of late mortality. What is clear is that early PPM for new LBBB is not protective against the increased mortality.[S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-16,S8.1.2.4-17] Although it may be considered, at the time of this writing, it is unclear whether patients with new bundle branch block that persists when the patient is ready for discharge will benefit from pacer implantation during the index hospitalization.[S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-7][—][S8.1.2.4-10]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. High-degree atrioventricular block is most commonly observed in the immediate periprocedural period but will persist beyond 48 hours in 2% to 20% of patients.[S8.1.2.4-1,S8.1.2.4-7,S8.1.2.4-8] In older studies, rates of PPM implant after TAVR ranged from 2% 51%, but with rapidly evolving technology and newer implant strategies, there has been a general decrease in the requirements for pacemaker implantation after TAVR.[S8.] 1.2.4-2—S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-7 In 1 study, at follow-up, 52% of patients were continuously paced, but 22% of patients had recovery of atrioventricular conduction and no longer required pacing for rate support.[S8.1.2.4-3] Specific timing of pacemaker implant has not been formally studied and will always depend on the individual clinical situation. In published reports, the range for pacemaker implantation after TAVR has varied from 2 days to several weeks with a median of approximately 3 days.[S8.1.2.4-2][—][S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-7]

  2. Patients with new bundle branch block after TAVR may be at risk for syncope and development of atrioventricular block. In 29% of patients with new LBBB the first episode of high-degree atrioventricular block occurs after discharge with associated potential risk for syncope.[S8.1.2.4-6] Careful surveillance for bradycardia is appropriate. Although different monitoring modalities, durations and intervals are available, to date no specific method or protocol has been proven to be superior. Further investigation in this area is needed. Institutions should choose the monitoring modality and protocol according to availability and expertise at the individual institution.

  3. New LBBB occurs in approximately 10% of patients after TAVR and will resolve in approximately 50% at 6 to 12 months.[S8.1.2.4-8] Patients with new persistent LBBB after TAVR are at increased risk for needing a PPM both perioperatively and after discharge.[S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-10] Studies

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e190

have been inconsistent on the implications of new LBBB after TAVR with some studies showing lower survival and others reporting no increased risk of death or repeat hospitalization.[S8.1.2.4-4,S8.1.2.4-18] Preprocedural conduction abnormalities, particularly RBBB, are associated with increased risk of PPM after TAVR.[S8.1.2.] 4-19,S8.1.2.4-20 In 1 study an HV interval 65 ms after TAVR was modestly predictive for the development of high-grade atrioventricular block in the setting of new LBBB after TAVR (sensitivity, 80%; specificity, 79%).[S8.1.2.4-21]

decreased from 10% to 14% to 2% to 4%.[S8.1.2.5.1-1][—][S8.1.2.] 5.1-4 SND remains the most common cause for bradycardia accounting for approximately 80% of cases.[S8.1.2.5.1-1][—][S8.1.] 2.5.1-4 A pathology study has identified individual patients in whom the conduction system was affected preferentially during allograft rejection, but a relationship between bradycardia and allograft rejection has not been found more generally in analyses of large databases.[S8.1.2.5.1-1][—][S8.1.2.5.]

1-5 Guidelines for the use of permanent pacing are the same for those that apply generally for SND and atrioventricular block, and in particular careful evaluation for the presence of symptomatic SND (Online Data Supplement 50).

8.1.2.5. Heart Transplant, Surgical Myectomy, and Alcohol Septal Ablation

8.1.2.5.1. After Heart Transplant

With the adoption of bicaval heart transplant anastomoses rather than biatrial anastomoses the pacemaker rate has

8.1.2.5.2. Surgical Myectomy and Alcohol Septal Ablation for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Recommendations for Patients Undergoing Surgical Myectomy or Alcohol Septal Ablation for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplements 51 and 52.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients with second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, high-grade atrioventricular block, or
persistent complete atrioventricular block after alcohol septal ablation or surgical myectomy, permanent pacing is recommended before discharge.S8.1.2.5.2-1—S8.1.2.5.2-4
IIaB-NR2. In selected patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who require permanent pacing for rate support after
alcohol septal ablation or surgical myectomy and are at high risk for sudden cardiac death and meaningful survival of greater than 1 year is expected, selecting a device with defbrillator capabilities is reasonable.S8.1. 2.5.2-5—S8.1.2.5.2-7
IIbC-LD3. In patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who undergo alcohol septal ablation and who are at risk for
developing late atrioventricular block, prolonged ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring may be considered.S8.1.2.5.2-1,S8.1.2.5.2-2,S8.1.2.5.2-4,S8.1.2.5.2-7,S8.1.2.5.2-8
IIbC-LD4. In patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, evaluation of ventriculoatrial conduction by EPS at the time of alcohol septal ablation may be considered for identifying future risk of atrioventricular block.S8.1.2.5.2-9

Synopsis

In patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and symptoms attributable to left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, surgical myectomy or alcohol septal ablation may be used to reduce septal thickness and improve symptoms.[S8.1.2.5.2-10] Risk of abnormal atrioventricular conduction varies widely among observational studies with estimates of 10% to 33% for alcohol septal ablation and 3% to 4% for surgical myectomy.[S8.1.2.5.] 2-10—S8.1.2.5.2-15 The wide reported range is in part attributable to differences in baseline conduction properties. For example, in patients undergoing surgical myectomy requirement for permanent pacing was 2% but increased to 10% if baseline conduction abnormalities were present.[S8.1.2.5.2-13] A metaanalysis of observational studies suggests that the risk of abnormal atrioventricular conduction requiring permanent pacing is higher with alcohol septal ablation relative to myectomy (10% versus 4.4%).[S8.1.2.5.2-11] However, a recent analysis of the National Inpatient Sample Database found similar 9% to 14% requirements for PPM for both alcohol septal ablation and surgical myectomy.[S8.1.2.5.2-16] Development of RBBB is observed in approximately 60% of patients after alcohol septal ablation and up to 90% of patients develop LBBB after surgical myectomy.[S8.1.2.5.2-13,S8.1.2.5.2-15]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Transient atrioventricular block after alcohol septal ablation is observed in approximately 15% to 50% of patients and usually resolves within 24 hours.[S8.1.2.5.2-1][—][S8.1.2.5.2-4,] S8.1.2.5.2-11—S8.1.2.5.2-15 The development of intraprocedural atrioventricular block is more likely in patients with preexisting LBBB, older patients, women, and the use of larger doses of ethanol.[S8.1.2.5.2-17] Protocols for implantation of a PPM varied from study to study, but most implanted a PPM if complete atrioventricular block was present.24 hours after alcohol septal ablation although actual time of implant varied with a range of 2 to 7 days. In some studies, patients with persistent complete atrioventricular block.24 hours commonly required permanent pacing for rate support at 2 weeks while, in other studies, recovery of atrioventricular conduction was observed in most patients.[S8.1.2.5.2-2][—][S8.1.2.5.]
  • 2-4,S8.1.2.5.2-13 PPMs are implanted in 2% to 10% of patients after septal myectomy usually for persistent complete heart block.[S8.1.2.5.2-15,S8.1.2.5.2-18]
  1. Selected patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are at risk for sudden cardiac death. The 2011 ACCF/AHA guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertrophic

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e191

  • cardiomyopathy and the 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death guidelines have identified several risk factors for sudden cardiac death including prior history of ventricular arrhythmias, a family history of sudden cardiac death, unexplained syncope, and a maximal left ventricular wall thickness 30 mm.[S8.] 1.2.5.2-5—S8.1.2.5.2-7,S8.1.2.5.2-10,S8.1.2.5.2-19 Surgical

myectomy has been associated with decreased risk of sudden death in 1 large cohort.[S8.1.2.5.2-20]

  1. Late heart block with initial identification.48 hours has been observed in some but not all studies after alcohol septal ablation. Potential risk factors for persistent atrioventricular block have not been consistent from study to study and have included preprocedure first-degree atrioventricular block[S8.1.2.5.2-1] or LBBB,[S8.1.2.5.2-2] transient atrioventricular block and new RBBB after the procedure.[S8.1.2.5.2-4] In 1 study, the first manifestation of atrioventricular block occurred between 2 days and 3 years in 9% of patients after alcohol septal ablation.[S8.1.2.5.2-21] In another study, outpatient rhythm monitoring with implantable loop recorders was initiated after alcohol septal ablation.[S8.1.2.5.2-8] Although there were episodes of ventricular fibrillation associated with complete heart block in the immediate periprocedural period, no episodes of heart block were identified after discharge.[S8.1.2.5.2-8] Late development of atrioventricular block after surgical myectomy has not been reported with limited follow-up.[S8.1.2.5.2-7,S8.1.2.5.2-15]

  2. In 1 study of 172 patients who underwent simultaneous alcohol septal ablation and EPS, those patients with intact retrograde ventriculoatrial conduction did not develop late complete heart block regardless of changes in anterograde

atrioventricular conduction properties associated with the alcohol septal ablation.[S8.1.2.5.2-9]

8.1.2.6. Managing Episodes of Bradycardia Associated With Postoperative AF

AF occurs commonly after cardiac surgery in adults, with a peak incidence 2 to 4 days postoperatively and an overall incidence ranging from 10% to 65%.[S8.1.2.6-1] Postoperative AF occurs more frequently in patients undergoing valve surgery than in those undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft.[S8.1.2.6-2] Bradycardia may take several forms in these patients, including slow ventricular response during AF and prolonged sinus pauses after sinus rhythm is restored. A slow and regular ventricular response during AF usually indicates complete heart block, and pacing may be required if resolution does not occur.[S8.1.2.6-3] The assessment of bradyarrhythmias in this setting is often complicated by the coexistence of atrial tachyarrhythmia; transient and time-dependent postoperative effects on sinus and atrioventricular node function, and the potential presence of antiarrhythmic drugs.[S8.1.2.6-4] In general, bradyarrhythmias in the setting of postoperative AF should be treated similarly to those occurring in the nonoperative setting, and a period of watchful waiting rather than early PPM implantation is generally used. In occasional patients with refractory AF with rapid ventricular responses associated with significant SND limiting rate control drugs, a PPM may be required for adequate AF management.

8.2. Bradycardia Management for Adult Congenital Heart Disease

Recommendations for Management of Bradycardia in Adults With Adult Congenital Heart Disease Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 53.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In adults with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) and symptomatic SND or chronotropic incompetence, atrial based permanent pacing is recommended.S8.2-1—S8.2-6
IB-NR2. In adults with ACHD and symptomatic bradycardia related to atrioventricular block, permanent pacing is recommended.S8.2-7—S8.2-9
IB-NR3. In adults with congenital complete atrioventricular block with any symptomatic bradycardia, a wide QRS
escape rhythm, mean daytime heart rate below 50 bpm, complex ventricular ectopy, or ventricular dysfunction, permanent pacing is recommended.S8.2-10,S8.2-11
IB-NR4. In adults with ACHD and postoperative second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, high-grade
atrioventricular block, or third-degree atrioventricular block that is not expected to resolve, permanent pacing is recommended.S8.2-12,S8.2-13
IIaB-NR5. In asymptomatic adults with congenital complete atrioventricular block, permanent pacing is reasonable.S8.2-7—S8.2-11
IIaB-NR6. In adults with repaired ACHD who require permanent pacing for bradycardic indications, a bradycardia device with atrial antitachycardia pacing capabilities is reasonable.S8.2-14,S8.2-15
IIaC-EO7. In adults with ACHD with preexisting sinus node and/or atrioventricular conduction disease who are
undergoing cardiac surgery, intraoperative placement of epicardial permanent pacing leads is reasonable.
IIbB-NR8. In adults with ACHD and pacemakers, atrial-based permanent pacing for the prevention of atrial arrhythmias may be considered.S8.2-3—S8.2-5,S8.2-16
III: HarmB-NR9. In selected adults with ACHD and venous to systemic intracardiac shunts, placement of endocardial pacing leads is potentially harmful.S8.2-17,S8.2-18

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e192

Synopsis

Adults with congenital heart disease are a diverse group of patients with varied anatomies of the conduction system, venous return to the heart, cardiac repairs and also progression of conduction system disease. This set of recommendations is focused specifically on the adult (and not the pediatric patient) with ACHD, using adult-specific references or expert consensus only. Many congenital heart disease syndromes have their specific considerations, such as preprocedure imaging of patients with a prior atrial switch to ensure no clinically significant stenosis or baffle leak before placing endocardial leads. This detail is beyond the scope of these broad guideline statements, and for such specialized care, these patients should be referred to dedicated centers with multimodality experience in managing this type of patient.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Permanent pacing can alleviate symptoms from SND in adults with ACHD. In adults with ACHD, SND is associated with higher mortality and a higher rate of atrial flutter although there is no randomized trial evaluating whether permanent pacing prevents these sequelae.[S8.2-1][—][S8.2-6] Given the younger median age of presentation of sinus node disease in this group of patients, they remain at higher risk for multiple transvenous leads over their lifetime. Single-lead atrial-based pacing is an established strategy for this type of patient and pathophysiology and is recommended for patients with isolated sinus nodal disease and preserved atrioventricular conduction. Single lead atrial-based pacing aims to limit the number of leads and potentially preserve vascular patency.[S8.2-19][—][S8.2-23]

  2. Atrioventricular block at any level is associated with a higher mortality in the ACHD patient, yet no randomized studies exist to compare treatment strategies for the asymptomatic patient. The degree of atrioventricular block from first-degree to complete atrioventricular block is relevant as far as reliability of an escape rhythm or unexpected syncope is concerned, yet patients may develop symptoms, regardless of the level block. As an example, patients with significant prolongation of atrioventricular conduction (without block) can develop atrioventricular dyssynchrony to such a degree that pacemaker syndrome can develop. Certain congenital anomalies (e.g., ccTGA and the endocardial cushion defects) are inherently associated with a more fragile atrioventricular conduction system, and more rigorous scrutiny of these patient groups is necessary.[S8.2-7][—][S8.2-9]

  3. Certain clinical features have been identified as high-risk markers for adverse outcomes including death in patients with congenital complete heart block.[S8.2-10,S8.2-11,S8.2-24] These reflect a deterioration or unreliability of the escape rate and an increased propensity to develop bradycardia-related ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes.[S8.2-10,S8.2-11,S8.2-24]

  4. The incidence and natural history of postoperative heart block in adults with ACHD varies by underlying anatomy,

  • surgery performed, and genetic effects.[S8.2-25] The optimal duration the clinician should wait before permanent pacing is not well defined given the multiple mechanisms at play including direct traumatic injury, ischemia, infarction, autonomic tone, stunned myocardium and differences in reperfusion that all influence recovery of conduction. Recent investigations suggest that waiting 7 to 9 days is likely unnecessary, but the clinician is urged to carefully consider and generally avoid early implantation,72 hours, so as to avoid unnecessary implantation of pacemakers.[S8.2-12,S8.2-13] One study has shown that patients are at high risk for permanent heart block if conduction has not resumed within 72 hours postoperatively.[S8.2-13]
  1. Patients with congenital complete heart block have a high incidence of late sudden death at any age, and although the supporting literature is somewhat conflicting, there is sufficient concern for unpredictability of disease progression that the clinician can consider permanent pacing in the asymptomatic individual.[S8.2-7][—][S8.2-11]

  2. The reentrant nature of the most common atrial arrhythmias in adults with ACHD will potentially allow for effective and reliable pace termination. This is distinctly different from managing the most common atrial arrhythmia in normal hearts and those with acquired disease, where AF predominates and cannot be consistently pace-terminated.[S8.2-14,S8.2-15]

  3. Long-term longitudinal observational studies have consistently demonstrated that endocardial leads retain better longevity and are less likely to fail. This is likely related to epicardial fibrosis in patients who have undergone prior pericardiotomy.[S8.2-26,S8.2-27] However, given the low-risk in placing epicardial leads at the time of cardiac surgery, it is recommended that this opportunity be used for lead placement—before the development of more epicardial fibrosis/adhesions in this patient group who are likely to undergo repeat operation and are at significant risk of sinus and atrioventricular node disease. In patients with single-ventricle anatomy who have undergone orthoterminal correction by some version of a Fontan procedure, there is likely not to be transcutaneous access for atrial pacing, because the atria have been excluded from the systemic venous pathway. These patients will require epicardial atrial electrodes to atrial pacing, and in general, will need both atrial and ventricular permanent epicardial leads. Although traditionally considered a contraindication, it may be that MRI can be performed safely in selected patients with abandoned leads using specialized protocols.[S8.2-28][—][S8.2-30]

  4. Atrial arrhythmias are observed in approximately 40% to 45% of patients with congenital heart disease. Large randomized trials such as CTOPP and MOST have shown a decrease in atrial arrhythmias with atrial based pacing in the general population compared with ventricular based pacing modes.[S8.2-31,S8.2-32] However, a recent nonrandomized study from a large registry of patients with congenital heart disease found no beneficial effect

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e193

with atrial based pacing for preventing atrial arrhythmias.[S8.2-33]

  1. Lead thrombus and/or vegetations can develop on endocardial pacing leads and have also been identified despite full anticoagulation.[S8.2-34] Systemic thromboembolism can therefore occur from these sources by crossing from the venous system and subpulmonic chambers into the systemic circulation. Shunts can exist in various forms such as atrial or ventricular septal defects, or baffle leaks, and can result in distal embolism and brain and peripheral

infarction. Nonconventional approaches for pacing therapy should be individualized, and multiple strategies can be considered. In patients in whom epicardial lead placement is not feasible or high risk; open or percutaneous shunt/leak closure may be considered; and rarely, the utilization of higher levels of anticoagulation to prevent lead thrombus.[S8.2-17,S8.2-18]

8.3. Management of Bradycardia in Patients With an Acute MI

Recommendations for Management of Bradycardia in the Context of Acute MI Referenced studies that support recommendations are summarized in Online Data Supplement 54.

CORLOERecommendations
IB-NR1. In patients presenting with an acute MI, temporary pacing is indicated for medically refractory symptomatic or hemodynamically signifcant bradycardia related to SND or atrioventricular block.S8.3-1—S8.3-4
IB-NR2. Patients who present with SND or atrioventricular block in the setting of an acute MI should undergo a waiting period before determining the need for permanent pacing.S8.3-1,S8.3-4—S8.3-7
IB-NR3. In patients presenting with an acute MI with second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, high-grade
atrioventricular block, alternating bundle-branch block, or third-degree atrioventricular block (persistent or infranodal), permanent pacing is indicated after a waiting period.S8.3-7,S8.3-8
IIaB-NR4. In patients with an acute MI with symptomatic or hemodynamically signifcant sinus bradycardia or
atrioventricular block at the level of the atrioventricular node, the administration of atropine is reasonable.S8.3-9—S8.3-11
III: HarmB-NR5. In patients with an acute MI and transient atrioventricular block that resolves, permanent pacing should not be performed.S8.3-1,S8.3-4,S8.3-7,S8.3-12—S8.3-16
III: HarmB-NR6. In patients with an acute MI and a new bundle-branch block or isolated fascicular block in the absence of second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block, permanent pacing should not be performed.S8. 3-17—S8.3-19

Synopsis

Although transient SND may occur in the context of an acute MI, nonreversible injury to the atrioventricular conduction system accounts for most pacing indications. The transient nature of the effects conduction issues in this setting must be considered. For example, SND and atrioventricular block in the setting of an inferior wall MI may be attributable to a transient increase in vagal tone or decreased blood supply to the atrioventricular node or less commonly the sinus node. Temporary pacing does not by itself constitute an indication for permanent pacing. The long-term prognosis for survivors of MI who have had atrioventricular block is related primarily to the extent of myocardial injury and the character of intraventricular conduction disturbances rather than the atrioventricular block itself.[S8.3-20,S8.3-21] A major caveat in guiding current therapy is that there have been no RCTs comparing pacing approaches in atrioventricular block complicating an MI. Regardless of whether the infarction is anterior or inferior, the development of an intraventricular conduction delay reflects extensive myocardial damage rather than an electrical problem in isolation.[S8.3-22]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. All types of conduction disturbances can occur in the context of an acute MI, and these are influenced by multiple mechanisms (often concomitant) including ischemia,
  • extent and location of MI, reperfusion and autonomic effects affecting electrical conduction or the sinus or atrioventricular node.[S8.3-1][—][S8.3-4] Hemodynamic compromise secondary to significant bradycardia can have deleterious effects on organ perfusion, which can complicate recovery and negatively impact survival (through renal, hepatic or cerebral ischemia). Given the difficulty in assessing reliable myocardial capture with transcutaneous pacing, this method should only be used if other temporary methods are delayed or not available.
  1. Given that regions of myocardium may not be irreversibly infarcted, and adequate reperfusion will improve electrical conduction, temporary atrioventricular block is common. The outcome is therefore determined primarily by the clinical presentation, location of infarct, and associated myocardial damage.[S8.3-6,S8.3-7,S8.3-9][—][S8.3-11,S8.3-23] Anterior MI with associated atrioventricular conduction impairment generally confers a worse prognosis with a higher mortality than an inferior MI with a similar initial presentation.[S8.3-1,S8.3-4,S8.3-6,S8.3-12,S8.3-24] Indications, therefore, for PPM implantation in the setting of an acute MI are based on the clinical situation, and adequate observation to allow for recovery of atrioventricular conduction, and to avoid unnecessary pacemaker implantation. Again, the clinician should carefully consider and generally avoid early permanent

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e194

  • pacing (,72 hours), so as to potentially avoid unnecessary implantation of pacemakers.[S8.3-10,S8.3-23] It may be reasonable to consider CIED with defibrillator capacity in patients with pacing requirement and low LVEF as indicated in other scientific society statements.[S8.3-25,S8.3-26]
  1. Persistent evidence of infranodal conduction impairment is associated with more severe myocardial injury, and a worse prognosis. In the context of infranodal conduction block maintenance of ventricular systole depends on the presence of less reliable ventricular escape rhythms. It may be reasonable to consider CIED with defibrillator capacity in patients with pacing requirement and low LVEF as indicated in other scientific society statements.[S8.3-25,S8.] 3-26

  2. Autonomic derangements during an acute MI are common, and small case series suggest that atropine can be used to increase heart rate.[S8.3-27] Atropine appears to be safe in those patients with atrioventricular nodal block in the absence of infranodal conduction system disease.[S8.3-9,S8.3-28,S8.3-29] In contrast, it is important to recognize that the use of atropine in patients with infranodal conduction disease or block can be associated with exacerbation of block and is potentially of harm. Aminophylline/theophylline has also been examined in this setting, and in the context of very limited data appears likely to be safe if atropine is ineffective.[S8.3-10,] S8.3-11,S8.3-30,S8.3-31

  3. Given that the natural course of an MI with conduction system abnormalities is frequently associated with recovery of conduction, early and unnecessary pacing should be avoided.[S8.3-1,S8.3-4,S8.3-7,S8.3-12] Although PPM implantation is a relatively low risk cardiac procedure, complications including death range from 3% to 7% and there are significant long-term implications for pacing systems that use transvenous leads.[S8.3-13][—][S8.3-16]

  4. Although injury to the fascicular system in the context of an acute MI indicates substantial myocardial injury (commonly through an anterior infarction), patients with injury to single bundle branches or fascicles have not

been shown to benefit from permanent pacing.[S8.3-1,S8.] 3-4,S8.3-6,S8.3-12,S8.3-24

8.4. Neurologic Disorders

A number of neurologic disorders can be associated with bradycardia, for example increased intracranial pressure (often called Cushing’s reflex).[S8.4-1] In these settings, bradycardia can be treated as described in the acute management sections (Sections 5.4. and 6.3.) if heart rate support is required. During chronic management of neurologic disorders, bradycardia can be observed in several settings. General recommendations for the management of cardiac involvement in patients with neuromuscular disorders including recommendations on surveillance and medical management have been provided in a recent AHA scientific statement.[S8.4-2] Specific recommendations for permanent pacing in the setting of progressive neurologic disorders that affect atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction has been discussed in Sections 6.4.4. and 7.5. in this document and special considerations for permanent pacing in patients with neuromuscular disease is summarized in Table S4 in the Web Supplement. Traumatic spinal cord injury above the sixth thoracic spinal cord can result in autonomic dysreflexia characterized by sympathetic impairment and preserved parasympathetic responses via the vagus nerve. Profound bradycardia can be triggered by noxious stimuli such as bladder catheterization.[S8.4-3] In a prospective multicenter study of 315 patients with spinal cord injury, bradycardia accounted for approximately 50% of the observed cardiovascular complications.[S8.4-4] Because bradycardia resolves after either a few weeks or removal of the noxious stimulus, conservative therapy is generally successful for managing the bradycardia. However, in some cases where symptomatic bradycardia cannot be avoided by conservative measures permanent pacing can be considered using the standard recommendations for implantation outlined in Sections 5.4.4. and 6.4.4.

8.4.1. Epilepsy

Recommendation for Patients With Epilepsy and Symptomatic Bradycardia

Referenced studies that support the recommendation are summarized in Online Data Supplement 55.

CORLOERecommendation
IIaC-LD1. In patients with epilepsy associated with severe symptomatic bradycardia (ictal bradycardia) where
antiepileptic medications are ineffective, permanent pacing is reasonable for reducing the severity of symptoms.S8.4.1-1—S8.4.1-4

Synopsis

In approximately 0.15% to 0.3% of patients with seizures, profound bradycardia can be observed and is often referred to as ictal asystole.[S8.4.1-1][—][S8.4.1-3] Bradycardia can be attributable to either sinus node arrest or complete heart block and is most commonly associated with temporal lobe source of seizures.[S8.4.1-1][—][S8.4.1-4]

Rate support in patients with profound bradycardia during seizures could theoretically attenuate the severity of associated syncope.

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Permanent pacing has been evaluated in small numbers of patients with significant bradycardia associated with

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e195

seizures identified from large databases.[S8.4.1-1][—][S8.4.1-3] surgery also appears to reduce the likelihood of Although bradycardia is most commonly defined as a bradycardia-induced syncope and should be considered pause.3 seconds and a 2-fold increase in the preceding before implanting a PPM.[S8.4.1-4,S8.4.1-5] Rate support R-R interval, in practice the pauses have been much with a PPM will not affect any accompanying longer, commonly with durations.10 seconds, and 1 vasodepressor effect associated with the seizure. study found that syncope only occurred with asystole.6 seconds. In these studies with limited follow-up pacing appears to be beneficial for reducing syncope symp9. Evaluation of the Risks for Ventricular toms associated with seizures.[S8.4.1-1][—][S8.4.1-4] Effective Arrhythmias in Patients Who Require treatment of seizures with antiepileptic medications or Permanent Pacing

9. Evaluation of the Risks for Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients Who Require Permanent Pacing

Recommendation for Management of Bradycardia and Conduction Tissue Disease in Patients Who Require Pacing Therapy and May Also Be at Risk for Ventricular Arrhythmias Referenced studies that support the recommendation are summarized in Online Data Supplement 56.

CORLOERecommendation
IB-NR1. In patients who require permanent pacing therapy, before implantation, an assessment of the risk of future ventricular arrhythmias and need for an ICD should be performed.S9-1—S9-7

Synopsis

Some patients who require or may benefit from pacing therapy may also be at risk for ventricular arrhythmias and should be considered for a device that provides treatment for bradycardia and/or conduction tissue disease and also ICD therapies.[S9-8,S9-9] For example, patients with symptomatic bradycardia caused by atrioventricular block who also have heart failure symptoms and an LVEF of 35%, myotonic dystrophy, lamin A/C cardiomyopathy, cardiac sarcoidosis, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are at increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death and might benefit from a device that has antitachycardia pacing or defibrillation capabilities.[S9-1,S9-5][—][S9-9] Although an ICD is designed for treatment of sustained ventricular arrhythmias, ICDs are associated with increased risk of complications compared with PPMs and in some cases the prognosis is dominated by nonarrhythmia-related sequelae of the underlying disease.[S9-2][—][S9-4,S9-6]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Some patients who require or may benefit from pacing therapy may also be at risk for ventricular arrhythmias and an ICD should be considered.[S9-1][—][S9-7] Before implantation of a cardiac device for treatment of symptoms associated with bradycardia or conduction tissue disease, a separate evaluation for potential risk of sudden cardiac death attributable to ventricular arrhythmias should be performed. Final device choice should be made after comprehensive discussion of the relative benefits and risks and an individualized choice based on shared decision-making principles.[S9-9]

10. Cost and Value Considerations

Pacemaker costs can be challenging to characterize, because of variability in both charges, reimbursement, and device type (single versus dual chamber, presence of ICD or CRT capabilities); the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services reports by state that charges vary from $20,753 to $78,140, and reimbursement varies from $11,411 to $19,577 in the United States, and systems with.1 lead are more expensive than simpler singlechamber systems.[S10-1] Calculation of the incremental cost-effectiveness of dual chamber pacing systems over single-chamber systems varies both by the specific estimates of benefit in terms of cost and the quality-adjusted life years gained.[S10-2][—][S10-6] In the United States, based on data from the MOST trial, the short-term incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (difference in cost between 2 therapies divided by the difference in their effect) or incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for a dual chamber pacemaker over a single-chamber device was $53,000, but considered over a lifetime, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was $6,800 per quality-adjusted life year.[S10-6] In large part driven by data from the DANPACE (The Danish Multicenter Randomised Study on AAI Versus DDD Pacing in Sick Sinus Syndrome) trial,[S10-7] dual chamber devices in another study were found to be more costeffective than single-chamber devices across a range of “willingness to pay” thresholds and in most scenarios, especially in elderly patients with greater burden of comorbidity,[S10-8] primarily because of a.20% risk of reoperation for pacemaker syndrome among patients with single-chamber devices.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e196

11. Shared Decision-Making

Recommendations for Shared Decision-Making for Pacemaker Implantation in the Setting of Guideline-Based Indications for Bradycardia Pacing

CORLOERecommendations
IC-LD1. In patients with symptomatic bradycardia or conduction disorder, clinicians and patients should
engage in a shared decision-making approach in which treatment decisions are based not only on
the best available evidence, but also on the patient’s goals of care, preferences, and values.S11-1—S11-6
IC-LD2. Patients considering implantation of a pacemaker or with a pacemaker that requires lead revision or
generator change should be informed of procedural benefts and risks, including the potential
short- and long-term complications and possible alternative therapy, if any, in light of their goals of care, preferences, and values.S11-1—S11-6
III: NoC-LD3. In patients with indications for permanent pacing but also with signifcant comorbidities such that
Beneftpacing therapy is unlikely to provide meaningful clinical beneft, or if patient goals of care strongly
preclude pacemaker therapy, implantation or replacement of a pacemaker should not be performed.S11-1—S11-6

Synopsis

The decision to implant a pacemaker should be shared between the patient and clinicians, using the principles of shared decision-making, and based on the clinical indications, consideration of individualized risks and benefits based on comorbidities and overall prognosis, and the patient’s preferences and goals of care. The potential consequences and potential future lead management issues (if applicable) should be discussed with the patient and family along with potential considerations at end of life.[S11-7,S11-8]

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. Consideration of patient preferences is essential for management decisions. Patient preferences for and acceptance of procedural and long-term risks and benefits of invasive therapies vary and may evolve throughout the course of their illness. The bradycardia guideline writing committee endorses shared decision-making as part of the general care for patients with symptomatic bradycardia. A commonly accepted definition of shared decisionmaking[S11-9] includes 4 components: 1) at least 2 participants, the clinician and patient; 2) both participants share information with each other; 3) both parties build a consensus about the preferred treatment; and 4) an agreement is reached on the treatment to implement. Sharing a decision does not mean giving a patient a list of risks and benefits and telling them to make a decision—a practice some authors have called “abandonment”.[S11-10] If time permits the patient should be directed to trusted material which supports and itemizes appropriate considerations which should be factored into their decision-making. Notably, a recommendation based on evidence or guidelines alone is not shared decision-making. Rather, a recommendation based both on the evidence as well as an understanding of the patients’ health goals, preferences and values is essential to achieving true shared decisionmaking.

  2. Pacemaker implantation or revision are commonly performed heart procedures and are not typically associated

  • with high procedural risk in most patients. Nevertheless, because pacemaker implantation or revision is frequently performed in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities, frailty, and competing risks of mortality, adverse events such as pneumothorax and cardiac tamponade can complicate the procedure. A thorough discussion should take place with the patient before the procedure outlining the potential individualized, patient-specific benefits and risks, including the implications of living with an implantable electrophysiology device that includes a discussion of a patient’s health goals, preferences, and values. For some patients, pacemaker therapy may affect usability.
  1. Patients with significant comorbid conditions may not derive the intended benefit of pacing support or an improved QOL. Similarly, in patients who are expected to have a shortened life span because of a terminal progressive illness (including advanced dementia, metastatic cancer with anticipated death in the immediate future, or similar situations with poor prognosis), the benefits of pacing support may not be realized and are unlikely to positively impact the overall outcome. Although the risks of pacemaker implantation are relatively low, the benefitrisk ratio is not favorable if the probable benefit is also quite low.[S11-11] These pros and cons can be discussed with the patient and include family with patient permission, or the patient’s family or surrogate if the patient does not have capacity.

12. Quality of Life

Among patients with indications for PPM implantation for either shared decision-making or atrioventricular block, QOL improves substantially after pacemaker implantation,[S12-1][—][S12-5] but the benefits of different pacing modes (such as dual chamber pacing versus single chamber pacing) are inconsistent. In the CTOPP trial, for example, there was no significant difference in improvement in QOL between patients with dual chamber and single chamber pacing.[S12-4] In the PASE trial, however, although there were no overall

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e197

benefits of dual chamber over single chamber pacing in terms of QOL, dual chamber pacing did appear to result in better QOL in the subgroup with shared decision-making.[S12-3] In the MOST trial, in addition to the benefits of less AF and heart failure, dual chamber pacing was associated with modest improvements in some QOL indices, especially among younger patients.[S12-1,S12-2] In small crossover studies, improvements

in measures of QOL were found with dual chamber pacing in some,[S12-6][—][S12-9] but not all studies.[S12-10] In the nonrandomized FOLLOWPACE observational study, over a mean follow-up of 7.5 years, pacing was associated with long-term improvement in QOL, but there were no apparent differences based on mode of pacing.[S12-5]

13. Discontinuation of Pacemaker Therapy

Recommendation for Discontinuation of Pacemaker Therapy

CORLOERecommendation
IIaC-LD1. In patients who present for pacemaker pulse generator replacement, or for management of pacemaker
related complications, in whom the original pacing indication has resolved or is in question,
discontinuation of pacemaker therapy is reasonable after evaluation of symptoms during a period of monitoring while pacing therapy is off.S13-1,S13-2

Synopsis

Prior recommendations have been provided for implantation of PPMs.[S13-3] Yet, the decision to not replace a pacemaker is more difficult. No guidelines previously existed for the removal of PPMs and the termination of long-term cardiac pacing.

In general, most patients with pacemakers at end of battery life or with lead or device malfunction undergo replacement or revision without questioning the need for continued pacing. However, physicians occasionally encounter patients referred for pacemaker surgery or with pacemaker related complications that do not appear to have a persistent need for pacing because the original indication is unclear, questionable, or appears to have resolved.[S13-4,S13-5] Furthermore, several studies have estimated that approximately 30% of pacemakers have been implanted for other than Class I and IIa indications.[S13-4,S13-6] In this group of patients, in whom the continued need for pacing is questioned, the process required to discontinue pacing therapy is unclear. Although the decision of not replacing a pacemaker is a difficult one, especially because the natural history of bradycardia can be unpredictable, it has to be balanced against the risk of long-term pacemaker related complications over a lifetime. In such patients, options for discontinuation of pacemaker therapy could include programming the pacemaker “off,” elective nonreplacement of a device approaching end of battery service life, explant of the pulse generator alone, and in some cases, pulse generator explant and extraction of the lead(s).

Recommendation-Specific Supportive Text

  1. In 1 study, 5 patients referred for pacemaker replacement or a pacemaker related complication in which the original indication for pacing appeared to have resolved, intrinsic rhythm was documented and 2 underwent EPS.[S13-1] The pacemakers were removed from all 5 patients and none had symptomatic bradycardia after 18 to 48 months of

follow-up.[S13-1] One group of investigators developed a protocol that was used to discontinue pacing therapy in 70 patients without a clear initial or persistent indication. The protocol included clinical evaluation, echocardiogram, exercise testing, and tilt table testing. If these tests were negative, the pulse generator energy was turned to off, with periodic 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring for up to 1 year, after which an EPS was conducted. Of the 70 patients, 35 had their pacemaker explanted; after a mean follow-up of 30.3 months all patients remained asymptomatic, except for 1 patient who died of a noncardiac cause.[S13-2] In a retrospective study of patients who underwent lead extraction without device replacement, mortality appeared to be dependent on comorbid conditions, and arrhythmia related death was rare.[S13-7]

14. End-of-Life Considerations

Healthcare professionals frequently face questions about pacemaker deactivation in patients nearing end of life. Although patients and families often fear that pacemakers will prolong the process of death, studies show that many physicians report uneasiness with conversations related to device management at the end of life, with many physicians feeling more uncomfortable deactivating pacemakers than defibrillators.[S14-1] Therefore, understanding the legal, ethical, and practical issues related to pacemaker deactivation is imperative. This topic has been addressed extensively in an HRS consensus statement; therefore, only a summary of the most important issues is provided here.[S14-2]

From the legal and ethical standpoint, a patient with decision-making capacity, or his/her legally defined surrogate, has the right to refuse or request withdrawal of any medical treatment or intervention, including pacemakers, regardless of whether the treatment prolongs life and its withdrawal would result in death. Withdrawal of a life sustaining medical intervention with the informed consent of a patient or

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e198

legal surrogate should not be considered physician-assisted suicide, and honoring these requests should be considered to be an integral aspect of patient-centered care.[S14-3] As with decisions surrounding implantation of pacemakers, these decisions should be undertaken by patients or legally defined surrogate and physicians together using the principles of shared decision-making.

Physicians should clarify for patients or their legally defined surrogates and their families the expected consequences of pacemaker deactivation. Patients and their families may wrongly assume that pacemakers may prolong the process of dying and thus prolong suffering. However, in general, pacemakers do not keep dying patients alive, because terminal events are often caused by various of other clinical conditions, such as cancer and, at the time of death, the pacemaker will ultimately fail to capture myocardial muscle rendering it irrelevant. Because pacemaker pulses are painless, in most cases pacemaker deactivation is unnecessary and reassurance of patients and family in addition to turning off cardiac monitoring may be all that is needed. If the decision is made to deactivate a pacemaker, patient death may follow immediately after the cessation of pacing therapy if the patient is completely pacemaker dependent. However, in those who are not pacemaker dependent, the process of death may be unpredictable. It is possible that turning off a pacemaker may lead to additional discomfort; therefore, patients must be monitored closely for potential symptoms, such as respiratory distress, which may require intensification of comfort care measures.

Pacemaker deactivation requires a written order from the responsible physician, which should be accompanied by a do-not-resuscitate order as well. Additional documentation in the medical record should include confirmation that the patient (or legal surrogate) has requested device deactiva- tion, capacity of the patient to make the decision or identifi cation of the appropriate surrogate and documentation that alternative therapies as well as documentation that the consequences of deactivation have been discussed.[S14-2] Palliative care and medical support should be provided to the patient and family in order to provide comfort in view of potential symptoms that may arise. Access to clergy (or chaplain) should be offered and provided according to the patient’s individual religious beliefs. If the clinician asked to deactivate a device has religious or ethical beliefs that prohibit him or her from carrying out device deactivation, he or she should not be forced to do so, and instead the patient should be referred to a different physician who is capable and willing.

Ideally, providers and healthcare systems that care for pacemaker patients should have processes in place for device deactivation when the time comes. Conversation related to end-of-life issues ideally should begin either at the time of device implant, or early during the early stages of the terminal illness. Clinicians should encourage patients undergoing device implantation to complete advanced directives and specifically address the matter of device management and deactivation if the patient is terminally ill.

15. Knowledge Gaps and Future Research

Gaps in the understanding of the management of bradycardia persist, particularly in the evolving role and developing technology for pacing. His bundle pacing is an emerging area of interest and is particularly relevant in patients who require significant amounts of ventricular pacing, but the long-term outcomes for this approach in large populations of patients remain uncertain.[S15-1,S15-2] The role of pacing among patients with transient bradycardia with reflex-mediated syncope beyond those with documented transient asystole is also uncertain.[S15-3,S15-4] Although cardiac resynchronization pacing is associated with improvement in outcomes among patients with atrioventricular block and heart failure in general,[S15-5,S15-6] the role of cardiac resynchronization in the subgroup of patients with an LVEF of.35% remains incompletely understood. The relative merits of His bundle pacing, cardiac resynchronization, or other pacing strategies for maintaining or improving left ventricular function in patients with atrioventricular block is unknown. In addition, pacing with entirely leadless devices is also an emerging area of interest,[S15-7,S15-8] but the role of these new devices in real-world practice, and their potential interaction with other cardiac devices, is not yet clear. Regardless of technology, for the foreseeable future, pacing therapy requires implantation of a medical device and future studies will be required to focus on the long-term implications associated with lifelong therapy.

Presidents and Staff

American College of Cardiology

C. Michael Valentine, MD, FACC, President

Timothy W. Attebery, MBA, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer

William J. Oetgen, MD, MBA, FACC, Executive Vice President, Science, Education, Quality, and Publishing MaryAnne Elma, MPH, Senior Director, Science, Education, Quality, and Publishing

  • Amelia Scholtz, PhD, Publications Manager, Science, Education, Quality, and Publishing

  • American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association

  • Katherine A. Sheehan, PhD, Director, Guideline Strategy and Operations

  • Abdul R. Abdullah, MD, Senior Manager, Guideline Science Thomas S. D. Getchius, Manager, Guideline Science Sam Shahid, MBBS, MPH, Associate Science and Medicine Advisor

  • Zainab Shipchandler, MPH, Associate Guideline Advisor, Clinical Practice Guidelines

American Heart Association

Ivor J. Benjamin, MD, FAHA, President

  • Nancy Brown, Chief Executive Officer

  • Rose Marie Robertson, MD, FAHA, Chief Science and Medical Officer

  • Gayle R. Whitman, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN, Senior Vice President, Office of Science Operations

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e199

Paul St. Laurent, DNP, APRN, Science and Medicine Advisor, Office of Science Operations

Jody Hundley, Production and Operations Manager, Scientific Publications, Office of Science Operations

Appendix

Supplementary Data

Supplementary data associated with this article can be found in the online version at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrthm.2 018.10.037.

References

1. Introduction

1.1. Methodology and Evidence Review

  • S1.1-1. Slotwiner DJ, Raitt MH, Del-Carpio Munoz F, et al. Impact of physiologic versus right ventricular pacing among patients with left ventricular ejection fraction greater than 35%: a systematic review for the 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline on the evaluation and management of patients with bradycardia and cardiac conduction delay: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidleines and the Heart Rhythm Society. Heart Rhythm 2019. In press.

1.4. Scope of the Guideline

  • S1.4-1. Epstein AE, DiMarco JP, Ellenbogen KA, et al. ACC/AHA/HRS 2008 guidelines for device-based therapy of cardiac rhythm abnormalities: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines (Writing Committee to Revise the ACC/ AHA/NASPE 2002 Guideline Update for Implantation of Cardiac Pacemakers and Antiarrhythmia Devices). Developed in collaboration with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2008;51:e1–e62.

  • S1.4-2. Epstein AE, DiMarco JP, Ellenbogen KA, et al. 2012 ACCF/AHA/HRS focused update incorporated into the ACCF/AHA/HRS 2008 guidelines for device-based therapy of cardiac rhythm abnormalities: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;61:e6–e75.

  • S1.4-3. Al-Khatib SM, Stevenson WG, Ackerman MJ, et al. 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS guideline for management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;72:e91–e220.

  • S1.4-4. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

  • S1.4-5. Fihn SD, Blankenship JC, Alexander KP, et al. 2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/ PCNA/SCAI/STS focused update of the guideline for the diagnosis and management of patients with stable ischemic heart disease: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines, and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:1929–1949.

  • S1.4-6. Fihn SD, Gardin JM, Abrams J, et al. 2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/ PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the diagnosis and management of patients with stable ischemic heart disease: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines, and the American College of Physicians, American Association for Thoracic Surgery, Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012;60:e44–e164.

  • S1.4-7. January CT, Wann LS, Alpert JS, et al. 2014 AHA/ACC/HRS guideline for the management of patients with atrial fibrillation: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014; 64:e1–e76.

  • S1.4-8. Fleisher LA, Fleischmann KE, Auerbach AD, et al. 2014 ACC/AHA guideline on perioperative cardiovascular evaluation and management of patients undergoing noncardiac surgery: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on practice guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:e77–e137.

  • S1.4-9. Amsterdam EA, Wenger NK, Brindis RG, et al. 2014 AHA/ACC guideline for themanagementofpatientswithnon—ST-elevationacutecoronarysyndromes: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:e139–e228.

  • S1.4-10. Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;62:e147–e239.

  • S1.4-11. O’Gara PT, Kushner FG, Ascheim DD, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;61:e78–e140.

  • S1.4-12. Hillis LD, Smith PK, Anderson JL, et al. 2011 ACCF/AHA guideline for coronary artery bypass graft surgery. a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Developed in collaboration with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2011;58:e123–e210.

  • S1.4-13. Gersh BJ, Maron BJ, Bonow RO, et al. 2011 ACCF/AHA guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Developed in collaboration with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, American Society of Echocardiography, American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, Heart Failure Society of America, Heart Rhythm Society, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2011;58:e212–e260.

  • S1.4-14. Levine GN, Bates ER, Blankenship JC, et al. 2011 ACCF/AHA/SCAI guideline for percutaneous coronary intervention: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. J Am Coll Cardiol 2011;58:e44–e122.

  • S1.4-15. PeberdyMA,CallawayCW,NeumarRW,etal.Part9:post-cardiacarrestcare: 2010 American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation 2010;122:S768–S786.

  • S1.4-16. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S1.4-17. Feingold B, Mahle WT, Auerbach S, et al. Management of cardiac involvement associated with neuromuscular diseases: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation 2017;136:e200–e231.

  • S1.4-18. Indik JH, Gimbel JR, Abe H, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging and radiation exposure in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e97–e153.

  • S1.4-19. Zipes DP, Link MS, Ackerman MJ, et al. Eligibility and disqualification recommendations for competitive athletes with cardiovascular abnormalities: Task Force 9: arrhythmias and conduction defects: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015;66:2412–2423.

  • S1.4-20. Sheldon RS, Grubb BP 2nd, Olshansky B, et al. 2015 Heart Rhythm Society expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of postural tachycardia syndrome, inappropriate sinus tachycardia, and vasovagal syncope. Heart Rhythm 2015;12:e41–e63.

  • S1.4-21. Khairy P, Van Hare GF, Balaji S, et al. PACES/HRS expert consensus statement on the recognition and management of arrhythmias in adult congenital heart disease. Developed in partnership between the Pediatric and Congenital Electrophysiology Society (PACES) and the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS). Heart Rhythm 2014;11:e102–e165.

  • S1.4-22. Kusumoto FM, Calkins H, Boehmer J, et al. HRS/ACC/AHA expert consensus statement on the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy in patients who are not included or not well represented in clinical trials. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:1143–1177.

  • S1.4-23. Birnie DH, Sauer WH, Bogun F, et al. HRS expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and management of arrhythmias associated with cardiac sarcoidosis. Heart Rhythm 2014;11:1305–1323.

  • S1.4-24. Brignole M, Auricchio A, Baron-Esquivias G, et al. 2013 ESC guidelines on cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy: the Task Force on Cardiac Pacing and Resynchronization Therapy of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Developed in collaboration with the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA). Eur Heart J 2013;34:2281–2329.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e200

  • S1.4-25. Gillis AM, Russo AM, Ellenbogen KA, et al. HRS/ACCF expert consensus statement on pacemaker device and mode selection. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012; 60:682–703.

  • S1.4-26. Ackerman MJ, Priori SG, Willems S, et al. HRS/EHRA expert consensus statement on the state of genetic testing for the channelopathies and cardiomyopathies this document was developed as a partnership between the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) and the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA). Heart Rhythm 2011;8:1308–1339.

  • S1.4-27. Lampert R, Hayes DL, Annas GJ, et al. HRS expert consensus statement on the management of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in patients nearing end of life or requesting withdrawal of therapy. Heart Rhythm 2010;7:1008–1026.

  • S1.4-28. Surawicz B, Childers R, Deal BJ, et al. AHA/ACCF/HRS recommendations for the standardization and interpretation of the electrocardiogram: part III: intraventricular conduction disturbances: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association Electrocardiography and Arrhythmias Committee, Council on Clinical Cardiology; the American College of Cardiology Foundation; and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2009; 119:e235–e240.

  • S1.4-29. Hancock EW, Deal BJ, Mirvis DM, et al. AHA/ACCF/HRS recommendations for the standardization and interpretation of the electrocardiogram: part V: electrocardiogram changes associated with cardiac chamber hypertrophy: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association Electrocardiography and Arrhythmias Committee, Council on Clinical Cardiology; the American College of Cardiology Foundation; and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2009;119:e251–e261.

1.5. Class of Recommendation and Level of Evidence

  • S1.5-1. Halperin JL, Levine GN, Al-Khatib SM, et al. Further evolution of the ACC/ AHA clinical practice guideline recommendation classification system: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2016; 67:1572–1574.

2. Epidemiology and Definitions

2.1. Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders

  • S2.1-1. Lev M. Aging changes in the human sinoatrial node. J Gerontol 1954;9:1–9.

  • S2.1-2. Evans R, Shaw DB. Pathological studies in sinoatrial disorder (sick sinus syndrome). Br Heart J 1977;39:778–786.

  • S2.1-3. Ferrer MI. The sick sinus syndrome in atrial disease. JAMA 1968; 206:645–646.

  • S2.1-4. Rosenqvist M, Obel IW. Atrial pacing and the risk for AV block: is there a time for change in attitude? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1989;12:97–101.

  • S2.1-5. Baine WB, Yu W, Weis KA. Trends and outcomes in the hospitalization of older Americans for cardiac conduction disorders or arrhythmias, 19911998. J Am Geriatr Soc 2001;49:763–770.

  • S2.1-6. Jensen PN, Gronroos NN, Chen LY, et al. Incidence of and risk factors for sick sinus syndrome in the general population. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014; 64:531–538.

  • S2.1-7. Daley WR, Kaczmarek RG. The epidemiology of cardiac pacemakers in the older US population. J Am Geriatr Soc 1998;46:1016–1019.

  • S2.1-8. Demoulin JC, Kulbertus HE. Histopathological correlates of sinoatrial disease. Br Heart J 1978;40:1384–1389.

  • S2.1-9. Rasmussen K. Chronic sinus node disease: natural course and indications for pacing. Eur Heart J 1981;2:455–459.

  • S2.1-10. Shaw DB, Linker NJ, Heaver PA, et al. Chronic sinoatrial disorder (sick sinus syndrome): a possible result of cardiac ischaemia. Br Heart J 1987; 58:598–607.

2.2. De nitions

  • S2.2-1. National Institutes of Health. Pulse. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/ ency/article/003399.htm. Accessed December 18, 2017.

  • S2.2-2. Jensen PN, Gronroos NN, Chen LY, et al. Incidence of and risk factors for sick sinus syndrome in the general population. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014; 64:531–538.

  • S2.2-3. Rijnbeek PR, van Herpen G, Bots ML, et al. Normal values of the electrocardiogram for ages 16-90 years. J Electrocardiol 2014;47:914–921.

  • S2.2-4. Fleg JL, Kennedy HL. Cardiac arrhythmias in a healthy elderly population: detection by 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiography. Chest 1982; 81:302–307.

  • S2.2-5. Talan DA, Bauernfeind RA, Ashley WW, et al. Twenty-four hour continuous ECG recordings in long-distance runners. Chest 1982;82:19–24.

  • S2.2-6. Page RL, Joglar JA, Caldwell MA, et al. 2015 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the management of adult patients with supraventricular tachycardia: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task

Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2016;133:e506–e574.

  • S2.2-7. Surawicz B, Childers R, Deal BJ, et al. AHA/ACCF/HRS recommendations for the standardization and interpretation of the electrocardiogram: part III: intraventricular conduction disturbances: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association Electrocardiography and Arrhythmias Committee, Council on Clinical Cardiology; the American College of Cardiology Foundation; and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2009; 119:e235–e240.

  • S2.2-8. Tanaka H, Monahan KD, Seals DR. Age-predicted maximal heart rate revisited. J Am Coll Cardiol 2001;37:153–156.

  • S2.2-9. Ahmed HM, Al-Mallah MH, Keteyian SJ, et al. Sex-specific maximum predicted heart rate and its prognosis for mortality and myocardial infarction. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2017;49:1704–1710.

  • S2.2-10. Jin L, Min G, Wei C, et al. Exercise training on chronotropic response and exercise capacity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Exp Ther Med 2017;13:899–904.

  • S2.2-11. Kusumoto FM, Goldschlager N. Cardiac pacing. N Engl J Med 1996; 334:89–97.

  • S2.2-12. Hancock EW, Deal BJ, Mirvis DM, et al. AHA/ACCF/HRS recommendations for the standardization and interpretation of the electrocardiogram: part V: electrocardiogram changes associated with cardiac chamber hypertrophy: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association Electrocardiography and Arrhythmias Committee, Council on Clinical Cardiology; the American College of Cardiology Foundation; and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2009;119:e251–e261.

  • S2.2-13. Galeotti L, van Dam PM, Loring Z, et al. Evaluating strict and conventional left bundle branch block criteria using electrocardiographic simulations. Europace 2013;15:1816–1821.

3. Clinical Manifestation of Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders

3.1. Clinical Manifestations of Bradycardia

S3.1-1. Brubaker PH, Kitzman DW. Chronotropic incompetence: causes, consequences, and management. Circulation 2011;123:1010–1020.

  • S3.1-2. Barold SS, Hayes DL. Second-degree atrioventricular block: a reappraisal. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76:44–57.

  • S3.1-3. Epstein AE, DiMarco JP, Ellenbogen KA, et al. 2012 ACCF/AHA/HRS focused update incorporated into the ACCF/AHA/HRS 2008 guidelines for device-based therapy of cardiac rhythm abnormalities: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;61:e6–e75.

  • S3.1-4. Goldschlager N. Underlying assumptions in evaluating "symptomatic bradycardia" (or, are we asking the right questions?). Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1988;11:1105–1107.

3.2. Clinical Manifestations of Conduction Disorders

  • S3.2-1. Surawicz B, Childers R, Deal BJ, et al. AHA/ACCF/HRS recommendations for the standardization and interpretation of the electrocardiogram: part III: intraventricular conduction disturbances: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association Electrocardiography and Arrhythmias Committee, Council on Clinical Cardiology; the American College of Cardiology Foundation; and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2009; 119:e235–e240.

  • S3.2-1. Galeotti L, van Dam PM, Loring Z, et al. Evaluating strict and conventional left bundle branch block criteria using electrocardiographic simulations. Europace 2013;15:1816–1821.

4. General Evaluation of Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

4.1. History and Physical Examination of Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.1-1. Al-Khatib SM, Stevenson WG, Ackerman MJ, et al. 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS guideline for management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;72:e91–e220.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e201

  • S4.1-2. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

  • S4.1-3. Mangrum JM, DiMarco JP. The evaluation and management of bradycardia. N Engl J Med 2000;342:703–709.

  • S4.1-4. Vogler J, Breithardt G, Eckardt L. Bradyarrhythmias and conduction blocks. Rev Esp Cardiol (Engl Ed) 2012;65:656–667.

  • S4.1-5. Munro NC, McIntosh S, Lawson J, et al. Incidence of complications after carotid sinus massage in older patients with syncope. J Am Geriatr Soc 1994;42:1248–1251.

4.2. Noninvasive Evaluation

  • 4.2.1. Resting ECG in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.2.1-1. Del Rosso A, Ungar A, Maggi R, et al. Clinical predictors of cardiac syncope at initial evaluation in patients referred urgently to a general hospital: the EGSYS score. Heart 2008;94:1620–1626.

  • S4.2.1-2. Linzer M, Yang EH, Estes NA 3rd, et al. Diagnosing syncope. Part 1: Value of history, physical examination, and electrocardiography. Clinical Efficacy Assessment Project of the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 1997;126:989–996.

  • S4.2.1-3. Perez-Rodon J, Martinez-Alday J, Baron-Esquivias G, et al. Prognostic value of the electrocardiogram in patients with syncope: data from the group for syncope study in the emergency room (GESINUR). Heart Rhythm 2014;11:2035–2044.

  • S4.2.1-4. Thiruganasambandamoorthy V, Hess EP, Turko E, et al. Defining abnormal electrocardiography in adult emergency department syncope patients: the Ottawa Electrocardiographic Criteria. CJEM 2012; 14:248–258.

  • S4.2.1-5. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

  • 4.2.2. Exercise Electrocardiographic Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.2.2-1. Lauer MS, Francis GS, Okin PM, et al. Impaired chronotropic response to exercise stress testing as a predictor of mortality. JAMA 1999; 281:524–529.

  • S4.2.2-2. Savonen KP, Kiviniemi V, Laukkanen JA, et al. Chronotropic incompetence and mortality in middle-aged men with known or suspected coronary heart disease. Eur Heart J 2008;29:1896–1902.

  • S4.2.2-3. Doi A, Tsuchihashi K, Kyuma M, et al. Diagnostic implications of modified treadmill and head-up tilt tests in exercise-related syncope: comparative studies with situational and/or vasovagal syncope. Can J Cardiol 2002;18:960–966.

  • S4.2.2-4. Woelfel AK, Simpson RJ Jr, Gettes LS, et al. Exercise-induced distal atrioventricular block. J Am Coll Cardiol 1983;2:578–581.

  • S4.2.2-5. Issa ZF. Atrioventricular conduction abnormalities. In: Miller JM, Zipes DP, eds. Clinical Arrhythmology and Electrophysiology: A Companion to Braunwald’s Heart Disease, 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier/Saunders; 2012. p. 175–193.

  • S4.2.2-6. Brubaker PH, Kitzman DW. Chronotropic incompetence: causes, consequences, and management. Circulation 2011;123:1010–1020.

  • S4.2.2-7. Dresing TJ, Blackstone EH, Pashkow FJ, et al. Usefulness of impaired chronotropic response to exercise as a predictor of mortality, independent of the severity of coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol 2000;86:602–609.

  • S4.2.2-8. Bakst A, Goldberg B, Schamroth L. Significance of exercise-induced second degree atrioventricular block. Br Heart J 1975;37:984–986.

  • S4.2.2-9. Bharati S, Dhingra RC, Lev M, et al. Conduction system in a patient with Prinzmetal’s angina and transient atrioventricular block. Am J Cardiol 1977;39:120–125.

  • S4.2.2-10. Bobba P, Salerno JA, Casari A. Transient left posterior hemiblock. Report of four cases induced by exercise test. Circulation 1972;46:931–938.

  • S4.2.2-11. Boran KJ, Oliveros RA, Boucher CA, et al. Ischemia-associated intraventricular conduction disturbances during exercise testing as a predictor of proximal left anterior descending coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol 1983;51:1098–1102.

  • S4.2.2-12. Coplan NL, Morales MC, Romanello P, et al. Exercise-related atrioventricular block. Influence of myocardial ischemia. Chest 1991; 100:1728–1730.

  • S4.2.2-13. Oliveros RA, Seaworth J, Weiland FL, et al. Intermittent left anterior hemiblock during treadmill exercise test. Correlation with coronary arteriogram. Chest 1977;72:492–494.

  • S4.2.2-14. AlJaroudi WA, Alraies MC, Wazni O, et al. Yield and diagnostic value of stress myocardial perfusion imaging in patients without known coronary artery disease presenting with syncope. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging 2013; 6:384–391.

4.2.3. Ambulatory Electrocardiography in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.2.3-1. Barrett PM, Komatireddy R, Haaser S, et al. Comparison of 24-hour Holter monitoring with 14-day novel adhesive patch electrocardiographic monitoring. Am J Med 2014;127:95.e11–95.e17.

  • S4.2.3-2. Brown AP, Dawkins KD, Davies JG. Detection of arrhythmias: use of a patient-activated ambulatory electrocardiogram device with a solid-state memory loop. Br Heart J 1987;58:251–253.

  • S4.2.3-3. Cumbee SR, Pryor RE, Linzer M. Cardiac loop ECG recording: a new noninvasive diagnostic test in recurrent syncope. South Med J 1990; 83:39–43.

  • S4.2.3-4. Gibson TC, Heitzman MR. Diagnostic efficacy of 24-hour electrocardiographic monitoring for syncope. Am J Cardiol 1984;53:1013–1017.

  • S4.2.3-5. Joshi AK, Kowey PR, Prystowsky EN, et al. First experience with a Mobile Cardiac Outpatient Telemetry (MCOT) system for the diagnosis and management of cardiac arrhythmia. Am J Cardiol 2005; 95:878–881.

  • S4.2.3-6. Linzer M, Yang EH, Estes NA 3rd, et al. Diagnosing syncope. Part 2: unexplained syncope. Clinical Efficacy Assessment Project of the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 1997;127:76–86.

  • S4.2.3-7. Locati ET, Moya A, Oliveira M, et al. External prolonged electrocardiogram monitoring in unexplained syncope and palpitations: results of the SYNARR-Flash study. Europace 2016;18:1265–1272.

  • S4.2.3-8. Reiffel JA, Schwarzberg R, Murry M. Comparison of autotriggered memory loop recorders versus standard loop recorders versus 24-hour Holter monitors for arrhythmia detection. Am J Cardiol 2005; 95:1055–1059.

  • S4.2.3-9. Rosenberg MA, Samuel M, Thosani A, et al. Use of a noninvasive continuous monitoring device in the management of atrial fibrillation: a pilot study. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2013;36:328–333.

  • S4.2.3-10. Rothman SA, Laughlin JC, Seltzer J, et al. The diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias: a prospective multi-center randomized study comparing mobile cardiac outpatient telemetry versus standard loop event monitoring. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2007;18:241–247.

  • S4.2.3-11. Sivakumaran S, Krahn AD, Klein GJ, et al. A prospective randomized comparison of loop recorders versus Holter monitors in patients with syncope or presyncope. Am J Med 2003;115:1–5.

  • S4.2.3-12. Turakhia MP, Hoang DD, Zimetbaum P, et al. Diagnostic utility of a novel leadless arrhythmia monitoring device. Am J Cardiol 2013; 112:520–524.

  • S4.2.3-13. Crawford MH, Bernstein SJ, Deedwania PC, et al. ACC/AHA guidelines for ambulatory electrocardiography: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines (Committee to Revise the Guidelines for Ambulatory Electrocardiography). Developed in collaboration with the North American Society for Pacing and Electrophysiology. J Am Coll Cardiol 1999;34:912–948.

  • S4.2.3-14. Steinberg JS, Varma N, Cygankiewicz I, et al. 2017 ISHNE-HRS expert consensus statement on ambulatory ECG and external cardiac monitoring/telemetry. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e55–e96.

  • S4.2.3-15. Bass EB, Curtiss EI, Arena VC, et al. The duration of Holter monitoring in patients with syncope. Is 24 hours enough? Arch Intern Med 1990; 150:1073–1078.

  • S4.2.3-16. Zeldis SM, Levine BJ, Michelson EL, et al. Cardiovascular complaints. Correlation with cardiac arrhythmias on 24-hour electrocardiographic monitoring. Chest 1980;78:456–461.

  • S4.2.3-17. Linzer M, Pritchett EL, Pontinen M, et al. Incremental diagnostic yield of loop electrocardiographic recorders in unexplained syncope. Am J Cardiol 1990;66:214–219.

  • S4.2.3-18. Subbiah R, Chia PL, Gula LJ, et al. Cardiac monitoring in patients with syncope: making that elusive diagnosis. Curr Cardiol Rev 2013; 9:299–307.

  • S4.2.3-19. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e202

S4.2.3-20. Brignole M, Vardas P, Hoffman E, et al. Indications for the use of diagnostic implantable and external ECG loop recorders. Europace 2009; 11:671–687.

4.2.4. Imaging in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.2.4-1. Schneider JF, Thomas HE Jr, Kreger BE, et al. Newly acquired left bundle-branch block: the Framingham study. Ann Intern Med 1979; 90:303–310.

  • S4.2.4-2. Schneider JF, Thomas HE Jr, Sorlie P, et al. Comparative features of newly acquired left and right bundle branch block in the general population: the Framingham study. Am J Cardiol 1981;47:931–940.

  • S4.2.4-3. Talreja D, Gruver C, Sklenar J, et al. Efficient utilization of echocardiography for the assessment of left ventricular systolic function. Am Heart J 2000;139:394–398.

  • S4.2.4-4. Dhingra R, Ho Nam B, Benjamin EJ, et al. Cross-sectional relations of electrocardiographic QRS duration to left ventricular dimensions: the Framingham Heart Study. J Am Coll Cardiol 2005;45:685–689.

  • S4.2.4-5. Dhingra R, Pencina MJ, Wang TJ, et al. Electrocardiographic QRS duration and the risk of congestive heart failure: the Framingham Heart Study. Hypertension 2006;47:861–867.

  • S4.2.4-6. Badheka AO, Singh V, Patel NJ, et al. QRS duration on electrocardiography and cardiovascular mortality (from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey-III). Am J Cardiol 2013;112:671–677.

  • S4.2.4-7. Bogale N, Orn S, James M, et al. Usefulness of either or both left and right bundle branch block at baseline or during follow-up for predicting death in patients following acute myocardial infarction. Am J Cardiol 2007; 99:647–650.

  • S4.2.4-8. Eriksson P, Hansson PO, Eriksson H, et al. Bundle-branch block in a general male population: the study of men born 1913. Circulation 1998; 98:2494–2500.

  • S4.2.4-9. Fahy GJ, Pinski SL, Miller DP, et al. Natural history of isolated bundle branch block. Am J Cardiol 1996;77:1185–1190.

  • S4.2.4-10. Imanishi R, Seto S, Ichimaru S, et al. Prognostic significance of incident complete left bundle branch block observed over a 40-year period. Am J Cardiol 2006;98:644–648.

  • S4.2.4-11. Chiu DT, Shapiro NI, Sun BC, et al. Are echocardiography, telemetry, ambulatory electrocardiography monitoring, and cardiac enzymes in emergency department patients presenting with syncope useful tests? A preliminary investigation. J Emerg Med 2014;47:113–118.

  • S4.2.4-12. Douglas PS, Garcia MJ, Haines DE, et al. ACCF/ASE/AHA/ASNC/ HFSA/HRS/SCAI/SCCM/SCCT/SCMR 2011 appropriate use criteria for echocardiography: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation Appropriate Use Criteria Task Force, American Society of Echocardiography, American Heart Association, American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, Heart Failure Society of America, Heart Rhythm Society, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, Society of Critical Care Medicine, Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography, Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance American College of Chest Physicians. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2011;24:229–267.

  • S4.2.4-13. Menozzi C, Brignole M, Alboni P, et al. The natural course of untreated sick sinus syndrome and identification of the variables predictive of unfavorable outcome. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:1205–1209.

  • S4.2.4-14. Bluemke DA, Achenbach S, Budoff M, et al. Noninvasive coronary artery imaging: magnetic resonance angiography and multidetector computed tomography angiography: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association Committee on Cardiovascular Imaging and Intervention of the Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Intervention, and the Councils on Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Disease in the Young. Circulation 2008;118:586–606.

  • S4.2.4-15. Bokhari S, Castano A, Pozniakoff T, et al. (99m) Tc-pyrophosphate scintigraphy for differentiating light-chain cardiac amyloidosis from the transthyretin-related familial and senile cardiac amyloidoses. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging 2013;6:195–201.

  • S4.2.4-16. Cheong B, Huber S, Muthupillai R, et al. Evaluation of myocardial iron overload by T(2)* cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging. Tex Heart Inst J 2005;32:448–449.

  • S4.2.4-17. Fontana M, Pica S, Reant P, et al. Prognostic value of late gadolinium enhancement cardiovascular magnetic resonance in cardiac amyloidosis. Circulation 2015;132:1570–1579.

  • S4.2.4-18. Franco A, Javidi S, Ruehm SG. Delayed myocardial enhancement in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. J Radiol Case Rep 2015;9:6–18.

  • S4.2.4-19. Greulich S, Deluigi CC, Gloekler S, et al. CMR imaging predicts death and other adverse events in suspected cardiac sarcoidosis. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2013;6:501–511.

  • S4.2.4-20. Haq M, Pawar S, Berk JL, et al. Can 99mTc-pyrophosphate aid in early detection of cardiac involvement in asymptomatic variant TTR amyloidosis? JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2017;10:713–714.

  • S4.2.4-21. Taylor AJ, Cerqueira M, Hodgson JM, et al. ACCF/SCCT/ACR/AHA/ ASE/ASNC/NASCI/SCAI/SCMR 2010 appropriate use criteria for cardiac computed tomography: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation Appropriate Use Criteria Task Force, the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography, the American College of Radiology, the American Heart Association, the American Society of Echocardiography, the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, the North American Society for Cardiovascular Imaging, the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance. J Am Coll Cardiol 2010;56:1864–1894.

  • S4.2.4-22. Mendu ML, McAvay G, Lampert R, et al. Yield of diagnostic tests in evaluating syncopal episodes in older patients. Arch Intern Med 2009; 169:1299–1305.

  • S4.2.4-23. Recchia D, Barzilai B. Echocardiography in the evaluation of patients with syncope. J Gen Intern Med 1995;10:649–655.

  • S4.2.4-24. Sarasin FP, Junod AF, Carballo D, et al. Role of echocardiography in the evaluation of syncope: a prospective study. Heart 2002;88:363–367.

  • S4.2.4-25. Dagres N, Bongiorni MG, Dobreanu D, et al. Current investigation and management of patients with syncope: results of the European Heart Rhythm Association survey. Europace 2013;15:1812–1815.

  • S4.2.4-26. Rabkin SW, Mathewson FA, Tate RB. Natural history of left bundlebranch block. Br Heart J 1980;43:164–169.

  • S4.2.4-27. Zhang ZM, Rautaharju PM, Soliman EZ, et al. Mortality risk associated with bundle branch blocks and related repolarization abnormalities (from the Women’s Health Initiative [WHI]). Am J Cardiol 2012; 110:1489–1495.

  • S4.2.4-28. Lamb LE, Kable KD, Averill KH. Electrocardiographic findings in 67,375 asymptomatic subjects. V. Left bundle branch block. Am J Cardiol 1960; 6:130–142.

  • S4.2.4-29. Rotman M, Triebwasser JH. A clinical and follow-up study of right and left bundle branch block. Circulation 1975;51:477–484.

  • S4.2.4-30. Al Rajoub B, Noureddine S, El Chami S, et al. The prognostic value of a new left bundle branch block in patients with acute myocardial infarction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Heart Lung 2017;46:85–91.

  • S4.2.4-31. Iuliano S, Fisher SG, Karasik PE, et al. QRS duration and mortality in patients with congestive heart failure. Am Heart J 2002;143:1085–1091.

  • S4.2.4-32. Kumar V, Venkataraman R, Aljaroudi W, et al. Implications of left bundle branch block in patient treatment. Am J Cardiol 2013;111:291–300.

  • S4.2.4-33. Shamim W, Francis DP, Yousufuddin M, et al. Intraventricular conduction delay: a prognostic marker in chronic heart failure. Int J Cardiol 1999; 70:171–178.

  • S4.2.4-34. Baldasseroni S, Opasich C, Gorini M, et al. Left bundle-branch block is associated with increased 1-year sudden and total mortality rate in 5517 outpatients with congestive heart failure: a report from the Italian network on congestive heart failure. Am Heart J 2002;143:398–405.

  • S4.2.4-35. Erne P, Iglesias JF, Urban P, et al. Left bundle-branch block in patients with acute myocardial infarction: Presentation, treatment, and trends in outcome from 1997 to 2016 in routine clinical practice. Am Heart J 2017;184:106–113.

  • S4.2.4-36. Yeo KK, Li S, Amsterdam EA, et al. Comparison of clinical characteristics, treatments and outcomes of patients with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction with versus without new or presumed new left bundle branch block (from NCDR(R)). Am J Cardiol 2012; 109:497–501.

  • S4.2.4-37. Brignole M, Auricchio A, Baron-Esquivias G, et al. 2013 ESC guidelines on cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy: the Task Force on Cardiac Pacing and Resynchronization Therapy of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Developed in collaboration with the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA). Eur Heart J 2013;34:2281–2329.

  • S4.2.4-38. Epstein AE, DiMarco JP, Ellenbogen KA, et al. 2012 ACCF/AHA/HRS focused update incorporated into the ACCF/AHA/HRS 2008 guidelines for device-based therapy of cardiac rhythm abnormalities: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;61:e6–e75.

  • S4.2.4-39. Linzer M, Yang EH, Estes NA 3rd, et al. Diagnosing syncope. Part 1: Value of history, physical examination, and electrocardiography. Clinical Efficacy Assessment Project of the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 1997;126:989–996.

  • S4.2.4-40. Akbar JJ, Meyer CA, Shipley RT, et al. Cardiopulmonary imaging in sarcoidosis. Clin Chest Med 2008;29:429–443. viii.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e203

S4.2.4-41. Blankenberg F, Eisenberg S, Scheinman MN, et al. Use of cine gradient echo (GRE) MR in the imaging of cardiac hemochromatosis. J Comput Assist Tomogr 1994;18:136–138.

  • S4.2.4-42. Friedrich MG, Sechtem U, Schulz-Menger J, et al. Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance in Myocarditis: A JACC White Paper. J Am Coll Cardiol 2009;53:1475–1487.

  • S4.2.4-43. Kanao S, Tadamura E, Yamamuro M, et al. Demonstration of cardiac involvement of sarcoidosis by contrast-enhanced multislice computed tomography and delayed-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2005;29:745–748.

  • S4.2.4-44. Kondur AK, Li T, Vaitkevicius P, et al. Quantification of myocardial iron overload by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging T2* and review of the literature. Clin Cardiol 2009;32:E55–E59.

  • S4.2.4-45. Kouranos V, Hansell DM, Sharma R, et al. Advances in imaging of cardiopulmonary involvement in sarcoidosis. Curr Opin Pulm Med 2015; 21:538–545.

  • S4.2.4-46. Maceira AM, Joshi J, Prasad SK, et al. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance in cardiac amyloidosis. Circulation 2005;111:186–193.

  • S4.2.4-47. Mavrogeni SI, Markussis V, Kaklamanis L, et al. A comparison of magnetic resonance imaging and cardiac biopsy in the evaluation of heart iron overload in patients with beta-thalassemia major. Eur J Haematol 2005;75:241–247.

  • S4.2.4-48. Patel MR, Cawley PJ, Heitner JF, et al. Detection of myocardial damage in patients with sarcoidosis. Circulation 2009;120:1969–1977.

  • S4.2.4-49. Raney AR, Bello D. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance assessment of ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathies. Heart Fail Clin 2006; 2:145–161.

  • S4.2.4-50. Ruberg FL, Appelbaum E, Davidoff R, et al. Diagnostic and prognostic utility of cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in light-chain cardiac amyloidosis. Am J Cardiol 2009;103:544–549.

  • S4.2.4-51. Shimada T, Shimada K, Sakane T, et al. Diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis and evaluation of the effects of steroid therapy by gadolinium-DTPAenhanced magnetic resonance imaging. Am J Med 2001;110:520–527.

  • S4.2.4-52. Smedema JP, Snoep G, van Kroonenburgh MP, et al. Evaluation of the accuracy of gadolinium-enhanced cardiovascular magnetic resonance in the diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis. J Am Coll Cardiol 2005;45:1683–1690.

  • S4.2.4-53. Sparrow PJ, Merchant N, Provost YL, et al. CT and MR imaging findings in patients with acquired heart disease at risk for sudden cardiac death. Radiographics 2009;29:805–823.

  • S4.2.4-54. Stauder NI, Bader B, Fenchel M, et al. Images in cardiovascular medicine. Follow-up of cardiac sarcoidosis by magnetic resonance imaging. Circulation 2005;111:e158–e160.

  • S4.2.4-55. Vignaux O. Cardiac sarcoidosis: spectrum of MRI features. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2005;184:249–254.

  • S4.2.4-56. Vogelsberg H, Mahrholdt H, Deluigi CC, et al. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance in clinically suspected cardiac amyloidosis: noninvasive imaging compared to endomyocardial biopsy. J Am Coll Cardiol 2008; 51:1022–1030.

  • S4.2.4-57. Hendel RC, Patel MR, Kramer CM, et al. ACCF/ACR/SCCT/SCMR/ ASNC/NASCI/SCAI/SIR 2006 appropriateness criteria for cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation Quality Strategic Directions Committee Appropriateness Criteria Working Group, American College of Radiology, Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography, Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance, American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, North American Society for Cardiac Imaging, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Interventional Radiology. J Am Coll Cardiol 2006;48:1475–1497.

  • S4.2.4-58. Anguera I, Miro JM, Evangelista A, et al. Periannular complications in infective endocarditis involving native aortic valves. Am J Cardiol 2006;98:1254–1260.

  • S4.2.4-59. Arnett EN, Roberts WC. Valve ring abscess in active infective endocarditis. Frequency, location, and clues to clinical diagnosis from the study of 95 necropsy patients. Circulation 1976;54:140–145.

  • S4.2.4-60. Birmingham GD, Rahko PS, Ballantyne F 3rd. Improved detection of infective endocarditis with transesophageal echocardiography. Am Heart J 1992;123:774–781.

  • S4.2.4-61. Choudhary SK, Bhan A, Reddy SC, et al. Aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva dissecting into interventricular septum. Ann Thorac Surg 1998; 65:735–740.

  • S4.2.4-62. Erbel R, Rohmann S, Drexler M, et al. Improved diagnostic value of echocardiography in patients with infective endocarditis by transoesophageal approach. A prospective study. Eur Heart J 1988;9:43–53.

  • S4.2.4-63. Shiga T, Wajima Z, Apfel CC, et al. Diagnostic accuracy of transesophageal echocardiography, helical computed tomography, and magnetic

  • resonance imaging for suspected thoracic aortic dissection: systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Intern Med 2006;166:1350–1356.

  • S4.2.4-64. Walters MI, Ettles D, Guvendik L, et al. Interventricular septal expansion of a sinus of Valsalva aneurysm: a rare cause of complete heart block. Heart 1998;80:202–203.

  • S4.2.4-65. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

4.2.5. Laboratory Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.2.5-1. Chon SB, Kwak YH, Hwang SS, et al. Severe hyperkalemia can be detected immediately by quantitative electrocardiography and clinical history in patients with symptomatic or extreme bradycardia: a retrospective crosssectional study. J Crit Care 2013;28:1112.e7–1112.e13.

  • S4.2.5-2. Mandell BF. Cardiovascular involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus. Semin Arthritis Rheum 1987;17:126–141.

  • S4.2.5-3. Nakayama Y, Ohno M, Yonemura S, et al. A case of transient 2:1 atrioventricular block, resolved by thyroxine supplementation for subclinical hypothyroidism. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2006;29:106–108.

  • S4.2.5-4. Noble K, Isles C. Hyperkalaemia causing profound bradycardia. Heart 2006;92:1063.

  • S4.2.5-5. Wan D, Blakely C, Branscombe P, et al. Lyme carditis and high-degree atrioventricular block. Am J Cardiol 2018;121:1102–1104.

4.2.6. Genetic Testing in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.2.6-1. Ishikawa T, Tsuji Y, Makita N. Inherited bradyarrhythmia: a diverse genetic background. J Arrhythm 2016;32:352–358.

  • S4.2.6-2. Joshi AK, Kowey PR, Prystowsky EN, et al. First experience with a Mobile Cardiac Outpatient Telemetry (MCOT) system for the diagnosis and management of cardiac arrhythmia. Am J Cardiol 2005;95:878–881.

  • S4.2.6-3. Smits JPP, Veldkamp MW, Wilde AAM. Mechanisms of inherited cardiac conduction disease. EP Europace 2005;7:122–137.

  • S4.2.6-4. Wolf CM, Berul CI. Inherited conduction system abnormalities–one group of diseases, many genes. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2006;17:446–455.

  • S4.2.6-5. Ackerman MJ, Priori SG, Willems S, et al. HRS/EHRA expert consensus statement on the state of genetic testing for the channelopathies and cardiomyopathies this document was developed as a partnership between the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) and the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA). Heart Rhythm 2011;8:1308–1339.

  • S4.2.6-6. Milanesi R, Baruscotti M, Gnecchi-Ruscone T, et al. Familial sinus bradycardia associated with a mutation in the cardiac pacemaker channel. N Engl J Med 2006;354:151–157.

  • S4.2.6-7. Schulze-Bahr E, Neu A, Friederich P, et al. Pacemaker channel dysfunction in a patient with sinus node disease. J Clin Invest 2003;111:1537–1545.

4.2.7. Sleep Apnea Evaluation and Treatment in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.2.7-1. Tilkian AG, Guilleminault C, Schroeder JS, et al. Sleep-induced apnea syndrome. Prevalence of cardiac arrhythmias and their reversal after tracheostomy. Am J Med 1977;63:348–358.

  • S4.2.7-2. Guilleminault C, Connolly SJ, Winkle RA. Cardiac arrhythmia and conduction disturbances during sleep in 400 patients with sleep apnea syndrome. Am J Cardiol 1983;52:490–494.

  • S4.2.7-3. Shepard JW Jr, Garrison MW, Grither DA, et al. Relationship of ventricular ectopy to oxyhemoglobin desaturation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Chest 1985;88:335–340.

  • S4.2.7-4. Shepard JW Jr. Gas exchange and hemodynamics during sleep. Med Clin North Am 1985;69:1243–1264.

  • S4.2.7-5. Hoffstein V, Mateika S. Cardiac arrhythmias, snoring, and sleep apnea. Chest 1994;106:466–471.

  • S4.2.7-6. Boudoulas H, Schmidt HS, Clark RW, et al. Anthropometric characteristics, cardiac abnormalities and adrenergic activity in patients with primary disorders of sleep. J Med 1983;14:223–238.

  • S4.2.7-7. Mehra R, Benjamin EJ, Shahar E, et al. Association of nocturnal arrhythmias with sleep-disordered breathing: The Sleep Heart Health Study. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2006;173:910–916.

  • S4.2.7-8. Miller WP. Cardiac arrhythmias and conduction disturbances in the sleep apnea syndrome. Prevalence and significance. Am J Med 1982; 73:317–321.

  • S4.2.7-9. Flemons WW, Remmers JE, Gillis AM. Sleep apnea and cardiac arrhythmias. Is there a relationship? Am Rev Respir Dis 1993;148:618–621.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e204

S4.2.7-10. Stegman SS, Burroughs JM, Henthorn RW. Asymptomatic bradyarrhythmias as a marker for sleep apnea: appropriate recognition and treatment may reduce the need for pacemaker therapy. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1996;19:899–904.

  • S4.2.7-11. Garrigue S, Pepin JL, Defaye P, et al. High prevalence of sleep apnea syndrome in patients with long-term pacing: the European Multicenter Polysomnographic Study. Circulation 2007;115:1703–1709.

  • S4.2.7-12. Becker H, Brandenburg U, Peter JH, et al. Reversal of sinus arrest and atrioventricular conduction block in patients with sleep apnea during nasal continuous positive airway pressure. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 1995; 151:215–218.

  • S4.2.7-13. Koehler U, Fus E, Grimm W, et al. Heart block in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea: pathogenetic factors and effects of treatment. Eur Respir J 1998;11:434–439.

  • S4.2.7-14. Grimm W, Koehler U, Fus E, et al. Outcome of patients with sleep apneaassociated severe bradyarrhythmias after continuous positive airway pressure therapy. Am J Cardiol 2000;86:688–692. a9.

  • S4.2.7-15. Harbison J, O’Reilly P, McNicholas WT. Cardiac rhythm disturbances in the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: effects of nasal continuous positive airway pressure therapy. Chest 2000;118:591–595.

  • S4.2.7-16. Daccarett M, Segerson NM, Hamdan AL, et al. Relation of daytime bradyarrhythmias with high risk features of sleep apnea. Am J Cardiol 2008;101:1147–1150.

  • S4.2.7-17. Bjerregaard P. Premature beats in healthy subjects 40-79 years of age. Eur Heart J 1982;3:493–503.

  • S4.2.7-18. Clarke JM, Hamer J, Shelton JR, et al. The rhythm of the normal human heart. Lancet 1976;1:508–512.

  • S4.2.7-19. Fleg JL, Kennedy HL. Cardiac arrhythmias in a healthy elderly population: detection by 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiography. Chest 1982; 81:302–307.

  • S4.2.7-20. Brodsky M, Wu D, Denes P, et al. Arrhythmias documented by 24 hour continuous electrocardiographic monitoring in 50 male medical students without apparent heart disease. Am J Cardiol 1977;39:390–395.

  • S4.2.7-21. Meytes I, Kaplinsky E, Yahini JH, et al. Wenckebach A-V block: a frequent feature following heavy physical training. Am Heart J 1975; 90:426–430.

  • S4.2.7-22. Northcote RJ, Canning GP, Ballantyne D. Electrocardiographic findings in male veteran endurance athletes. Br Heart J 1989;61:155–160.

  • S4.2.7-23. Viitasalo MT, Kala R, Eisalo A. Ambulatory electrocardiographic recording in endurance athletes. Br Heart J 1982;47:213–220.

  • S4.2.7-24. Young T, Palta M, Dempsey J, et al. The occurrence of sleep-disordered breathing among middle-aged adults. N Engl J Med 1993;328:1230–1235.

  • S4.2.7-25. Kasai T, Floras JS, Bradley TD. Sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease: a bidirectional relationship. Circulation 2012;126:1495–1510.

  • S4.2.7-26. Guilleminault C, Connolly S, Winkle R, et al. Cyclical variation of the heart rate in sleep apnoea syndrome. Mechanisms, and usefulness of 24 h electrocardiography as a screening technique. Lancet 1984;1:126–131.

4.3. Invasive Testing

4.3.1. Implantable Cardiac Monitor in Patients With Docu-

mented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

  • S4.3.1-1. Farwell DJ, Freemantle N, Sulke AN. Use of implantable loop recorders in the diagnosis and management of syncope. Eur Heart J 2004; 25:1257–1263.

  • S4.3.1-2. Krahn AD, Klein GJ, Yee R, et al. Randomized assessment of syncope trial: conventional diagnostic testing versus a prolonged monitoring strategy. Circulation 2001;104:46–51.

  • S4.3.1-3. Podoleanu C, DaCosta A, Defaye P, et al. Early use of an implantable loop recorder in syncope evaluation: a randomized study in the context of the French healthcare system (FRESH study). Arch Cardiovasc Dis 2014; 107:546–552.

  • S4.3.1-4. Krahn AD, Klein GJ, Yee R, et al. Final results from a pilot study with an implantable loop recorder to determine the etiology of syncope in patients with negative noninvasive and invasive testing. Am J Cardiol 1998; 82:117–119, A8-A9.

  • S4.3.1-5. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

4.3.2. Electrophysiology Study in Patients With Documented or Suspected Bradycardia or Conduction Disorders

S4.3.2-1. DiMarco JP, Garan H, Ruskin JN. Approach to the patient with recurrent syncope of unknown cause. Mod Concepts Cardiovasc Dis 1983; 52:11–16.

S4.3.2-2. Fisher JD. Role of electrophysiologic testing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with known and suspected bradycardias and tachycardias. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 1981;24:25–90.

S4.3.2-3. Gulamhusein S, Naccarelli GV, Ko PT, et al. Value and limitations of clinical electrophysiologic study in assessment of patients with unexplained syncope. Am J Med 1982;73:A53. S4.3.2-4. Krol RB, Morady F, Flaker GC, et al. Electrophysiologic testing in patients with unexplained syncope: Clinical and noninvasive predictors of outcome. J Am Coll Cardiol 1987;10:358–363. S4.3.2-5. Denniss AR, Ross DL, Richards DA, et al. Electrophysiologic studies in patients with unexplained syncope. Int J Cardiol 1992;35:211–217.

  • S4.3.2-6. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

  • S4.3.2-7. Altschuler H, Fisher JD, Furman S. Significance of isolated H-V interval prolongation in symptomatic patients without documented heart block. Am Heart J 1979;97:19–26.

  • S4.3.2-8. Fujimura O, Yee R, Klein GJ, et al. The diagnostic sensitivity of electrophysiologic testing in patients with syncope caused by transient bradycardia. N Engl J Med 1989;321:1703–1707.

5. Bradycardia Attributable to SND

5.1. Pathology/Pathophysiology/Etiology of SND

S5.1-1. Boyett MR, Honjo H, Kodama I. The sinoatrial node, a heterogeneous pacemaker structure. Cardiovasc Res 2000;47:658–687.

  • S5.1-2. den Hoed M, Eijgelsheim M, Esko T, et al. Identification of heart rateassociated loci and their effects on cardiac conduction and rhythm disorders. Nat Genet 2013;45:621–631.

  • S5.1-3. Deo R, Nalls MA, Avery CL, et al. Common genetic variation near the connexin-43 gene is associated with resting heart rate in African Americans: a genome-wide association study of 13,372 participants. Heart Rhythm 2013;10:401–408.

  • S5.1-4. Eijgelsheim M, Newton-Cheh C, Sotoodehnia N, et al. Genome-wide association analysis identifies multiple loci related to resting heart rate. Hum Mol Genet 2010;19:3885–3894.

  • S5.1-5. Holm H, Gudbjartsson DF, Arnar DO, et al. Several common variants modulate heart rate, PR interval and QRS duration. Nat Genet 2010;42:117–122.

  • S5.1-6. Holm H, Gudbjartsson DF, Sulem P, et al. A rare variant in MYH6 is associated with high risk of sick sinus syndrome. Nat Genet 2011;43:316–320.

  • S5.1-7. Mezzano V, Liang Y, Wright AT, et al. Desmosomal junctions are necessary for adult sinus node function. Cardiovasc Res 2016;111:274–286.

  • S5.1-8. Csepe TA, Kalyanasundaram A, Hansen BJ, et al. Fibrosis: a structural modulator of sinoatrial node physiology and dysfunction. Front Physiol 2015;6:37.

  • S5.1-9. Thery C, Gosselin B, Lekieffre J, et al. Pathology of sinoatrial node. Correlations with electrocardiographic findings in 111 patients. Am Heart J 1977; 93:735–740.

  • S5.1-10. Lien WP, Lee YS, Chang FZ, et al. The sick sinus syndrome: natural history of dysfunction of the sinoatrial node. Chest 1977;72:628–634.

  • S5.1-11. Dharod A, Soliman EZ, Dawood F, et al. Association of asymptomatic bradycardia with incident cardiovascular disease and mortality: the multiethnic study of atherosclerosis (MESA). JAMA Intern Med 2016; 176:219–227.

  • S5.1-12. Gann D, Tolentino A, Samet P. Electrophysiologic evaluation of elderly patients with sinus bradycardia: a long-term follow-up study. Ann Intern Med 1979;90:24–29.

  • S5.1-13. Menozzi C, Brignole M, Alboni P, et al. The natural course of untreated sick sinus syndrome and identification of the variables predictive of unfavorable outcome. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:1205–1209.

  • S5.1-14. Engeseth K, Hodnesdal C, Grundvold I, et al. Temporal reduction in chronotropic index predicts risk of cardiovascular death among healthy middle-aged men: a 28-year follow-up study. J Am Heart Assoc 2016; 5:e004555.

  • S5.1-15. Lauer MS, Francis GS, Okin PM, et al. Impaired chronotropic response to exercise stress testing as a predictor of mortality. JAMA 1999;281:524–529.

  • S5.1-16. Byrne EA, Fleg JL, Vaitkevicius PV, et al. Role of aerobic capacity and body mass index in the age-associated decline in heart rate variability (1985). J Appl Physiol 1996;81:743–750.

5.2. Clinical Presentation of SND

S5.2-1. Nielsen JC, Thomsen PE, Hojberg S, et al. A comparison of single-lead atrial pacing with dual-chamber pacing in sick sinus syndrome. Eur Heart J 2011;32:686–696.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e205

5.3. Acute Management of SND

5.3.1. Acute Management of Reversible Causes of SND

  • S5.3.1-1. Da Costa D, Brady WJ, Edhouse J. Bradycardias and atrioventricular conduction block. BMJ 2002;324:535–538.

  • S5.3.1-2. Alboni P, Baggioni GF, Scarfo S, et al. Role of sinus node artery disease in sick sinus syndrome in inferior wall acute myocardial infarction. Am J Cardiol 1991;67:1180–1184.

  • S5.3.1-3. Ando G, Gaspardone A, Proietti I. Acute thrombosis of the sinus node artery: arrhythmological implications. Heart 2003;89:E5.

  • S5.3.1-4. Rokseth R, Hatle L. Sinus arrest in acute myocardial infarction. Br Heart J 1971;33:639–642.

  • S5.3.1-5. Zehender M, Meinertz T, Keul J, et al. ECG variants and cardiac arrhythmias in athletes: clinical relevance and prognostic importance. Am Heart J 1990;119:1378–1391.

  • S5.3.1-6. Jackson LR 2nd, Rathakrishnan B, Campbell K, et al. Sinus node dysfunction and atrial fibrillation: a reversible phenomenon? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2017;40:442–450.

  • S5.3.1-7. Pasic M, Musci M, Siniawski H, et al. Transient sinus node dysfunction after the Cox-Maze III procedure in patients with organic heart disease and chronic fixed atrial fibrillation. J Am Coll Cardiol 1998; 32:1040–1047.

  • S5.3.1-8. Shin H, Yozu R, Higashi S, et al. Sinus node function after mitral valve surgery using the superior septal approach. Ann Thorac Surg 2001; 71:587–590.

  • S5.3.1-9. Cleveland RJ, Nelson RJ, Zeilenga DW, et al. Atrial pacing following open-heart surgery. Arch Surg 1972;105:26–29.

  • S5.3.1-10. Peretto G, Durante A, Limite LR, et al. Postoperative arrhythmias after cardiac surgery: incidence, risk factors, and therapeutic management. Cardiol Res Pract 2014;2014:615987.

  • S5.3.1-11. Franklin SM, Thihalolipavan S, Fontaine JM. Sinus bradycardia in habitual cocaine users. Am J Cardiol 2017;119:1611–1615.

  • S5.3.1-12. Ettinger PO, Regan TJ, Oldewurtel HA. Hyperkalemia, cardiac conduction, and the electrocardiogram: a review. Am Heart J 1974;88:360–371.

  • S5.3.1-13. Lee G, McGavigan AD, Hillock RJ, et al. A grave case of bradycardia. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2006;29:788–790.

  • S5.3.1-14. Bolognesi R, Tsialtas D, Bolognesi MG, et al. Marked sinus bradycardia and QT prolongation in a diabetic patient with severe hypoglycemia. J Diabetes Complications 2011;25:349–351.

  • S5.3.1-15. Luebbert JJ, Lee FA, Rosenfeld LE. Pacemaker therapy for early and late sinus node dysfunction in orthotopic heart transplant recipients: a singlecenter experience. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2008;31:1108–1112.

  • S5.3.1-16. Bertolet BD, Eagle DA, Conti JB, et al. Bradycardia after heart transplantation: reversal with theophylline. J Am Coll Cardiol 1996;28:396–399.

  • S5.3.1-17. Heinz G, Hirschl M, Buxbaum P, et al. Sinus node dysfunction after orthotopic cardiac transplantation: postoperative incidence and long-term implications. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1992;15:731–737.

  • S5.3.1-18. Santinelli V, Chiariello M, Clarizia M, et al. Sick sinus syndrome: the role of hypervagotonia. Int J Cardiol 1984;5:532–535.

  • S5.3.1-19. Desai JM, Scheinman MM, Strauss HC, et al. Electrophysiologic effects on combined autonomic blockade in patients with sinus node disease. Circulation 1981;63:953–960.

  • S5.3.1-20. Thomsen JH, Hassager C, Bro-Jeppesen J, et al. Sinus bradycardia during hypothermia in comatose survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest—a new early marker of favorable outcome? Resuscitation 2015;89:36–42.

  • S5.3.1-21. Mattu A, Brady WJ, Perron AD. Electrocardiographic manifestations of hypothermia. Am J Emerg Med 2002;20:314–326.

  • S5.3.1-22. Grais IM, Sowers JR. Thyroid and the heart. Am J Med 2014; 127:691–698.

  • S5.3.1-23. Secher NH, Sander Jensen K, Werner C, et al. Bradycardia during severe but reversible hypovolemic shock in man. Circ Shock 1984;14:267–274.

  • S5.3.1-24. Zwillich C, Devlin T, White D, et al. Bradycardia during sleep apnea. Characteristics and mechanism. J Clin Invest 1982;69:1286–1292.

  • S5.3.1-25. Grmec S, Strnad M, Podgorsek D. Comparison of the characteristics and outcome among patients suffering from out-of-hospital primary cardiac arrest and drowning victims in cardiac arrest. Int J Emerg Med 2009;2:7–12.

  • S5.3.1-26. Myers MG, Norris JW, Hachinski VC, et al. Cardiac sequelae of acute stroke. Stroke 1982;13:838–842.

  • S5.3.1-27. Cunha BA. The diagnostic significance of relative bradycardia in infectious disease. Clin Microbiol Infect 2000;6:633–634.

  • S5.3.1-28. Woolf PK, Lorsung EM, Edwards KS, et al. Electrocardiographic findings in children with Lyme disease. Pediatr Emerg Care 1991; 7:334–336.

  • S5.3.1-29. Gee SW, Karsies TJ. Listeria meningitis-associated bradyarrhythmia treated with isoproterenol. Am J Emerg Med 2015;33:306.e1–306.e2.

  • S5.3.1-30. Narayan D, Huang MT, Mathew PK. Bradycardia and asystole requiring permanent pacemaker in Guillain-Barre syndrome. Am Heart J 1984; 108:426–428.

  • S5.3.1-31. Ma G, Brady WJ, Pollack M, et al. Electrocardiographic manifestations: digitalis toxicity. J Emerg Med 2001;20:145–152.

  • S5.3.1-32. Talati SN, Aslam AF, Vasavada B. Sinus node dysfunction in association with chronic lithium therapy: a case report and review of literature. Am J Ther 2009;16:274–278.

  • S5.3.1-33. Aghamohammadi H, Mehrabi S, Mohammad Ali Beigi F. Prevention of bradycardia by atropine sulfate during urological laparoscopic surgery: a randomized controlled trial. Urol J 2009;6:92–95.

  • S5.3.1-34. Bernheim A, Fatio R, Kiowski W, et al. Atropine often results in complete atrioventricular block or sinus arrest after cardiac transplantation: an unpredictable and dose-independent phenomenon. Transplantation 2004; 77:1181–1185.

  • S5.3.1-35. Brady WJ, Swart G, DeBehnke DJ, et al. The efficacy of atropine in the treatment of hemodynamically unstable bradycardia and atrioventricular block: prehospital and emergency department considerations. Resuscitation 1999;41:47–55.

  • S5.3.1-36. Chadda KD, Lichstein E, Gupta PK, et al. Effects of atropine in patients with bradyarrhythmia complicating myocardial infarction. Usefulness of an optimum dose for overdrive. Am J Med 1977;63:503–510.

  • S5.3.1-37. Cossu SF, Rothman SA, Chmielewski IL, et al. The effects of isoproterenol on the cardiac conduction system: site-specific dose dependence. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 1997;8:847–853.

  • S5.3.1-38. Das G, Talmers FN, Weissler AM. New observations on the effects of atropine on the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes in man. Am J Cardiol 1975;36:281–285.

  • S5.3.1-39. Dhingra RC, Deedwania PC, Cummings JM, et al. Electrophysiologic effects of lidocaine on sinus node and atrium in patients with and without sinoatrial dysfunction. Circulation 1978;57:448–454.

  • S5.3.1-40. Ferrans VJ, Hibbs RG, Black WC, et al. Isoproterenol-induced myocardial necrosis. A histochemical and electron microscopic study. Am Heart J 1964;68:71–90.

  • S5.3.1-41. Jaffe R, Rubinshtein R, Feigenberg Z, et al. Evaluation of isoproterenol in patients undergoing resuscitation for out-of-hospital asystolic cardiac arrest (the Israel Resuscitation with Isoproterenol Study Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial). Am J Cardiol 2004;93:1407–1409. a9.

  • S5.3.1-42. Jaffe R, Weiss AT, Rosenheck S. Combined isoproterenol and epinephrine for the resuscitation of patients with cardiac asystole secondary to coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol 1996;77:194–195.

  • S5.3.1-43. Kurland G, Williams J, Lewiston NJ. Fatal myocardial toxicity during continuous infusion intravenous isoproterenol therapy of asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1979;63:407–411.

  • S5.3.1-44. Lavonas EJ, Drennan IR, Gabrielli A, et al. Part 10: special circumstances of resuscitation: 2015 American Heart Association guidelines update for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation 2015;132:S501–S518.

  • S5.3.1-45. Mandel WJ, Hayakawa H, Allen HN, et al. Assessment of sinus node function in patients with the sick sinus syndrome. Circulation 1972; 46:761–769.

  • S5.3.1-46. Meyer EC, Sommers DK, Schoeman HS, et al. The effect of atropine on heart-rate: a comparison between two ethnic groups. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1988;25:776–777.

  • S5.3.1-47. Nathanson MH, Miller H. The action of norepinephrine, epinephrine and isopropyl norepinephrine on the rhythmic function of the heart. Circulation 1952;6:238–244.

  • S5.3.1-48. Ogawa H, Inoue T, Miwa S, et al. Heart rate responses to autonomic drugs in sick sinus syndrome–correlation with syncope and electrophysiologic data. Jpn Circ J 1991;55:15–23.

  • S5.3.1-49. Reiffel JA, Bigger JT Jr, Reid DS. The effect of atropine on sinus node function in adults with sinus bradycardia. Am J Cardiol 1975;35:165.

  • S5.3.1-50. Scheinman MM, Thorburn D, Abbott JA. Use of atropine in patients with acute myocardial infarction and sinus bradycardia. Circulation 1975; 52:627–633.

  • S5.3.1-51. Strauss HC, Bigger JT, Saroff AL, et al. Electrophysiologic evaluation of sinus node function in patients with sinus node dysfunction. Circulation 1976;53:763–776.

  • S5.3.1-52. Swart G, Brady WJ Jr, DeBehnke DJ, et al. Acute myocardial infarction complicated by hemodynamically unstable bradyarrhythmia: prehospital and ED treatment with atropine. Am J Emerg Med 1999;17:647–652.

  • S5.3.1-53. Warren JV, Lewis RP. Beneficial effects of atropine in the pre-hospital phase of coronary care. Am J Cardiol 1976;37:68–72.

  • S5.3.1-54. Amsterdam EA, Wenger NK, Brindis RG, et al. 2014 AHA/ACC guideline for the management of patients with non—ST-elevation acute

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e206

coronary syndromes: a report of the American College of Cardiology/ American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:e139–e228.

5.3.2. Acute Medical Therapy for Bradycardia

5.3.2.1. Atropine and Beta Agonists for Bradycardia Attributable to SND

  • S5.3.2.1-1. Brady WJ, Swart G, DeBehnke DJ, et al. The efficacy of atropine in the treatment of hemodynamically unstable bradycardia and atrioventricular block: prehospital and emergency department considerations. Resuscitation 1999;41:47–55.

  • S5.3.2.1-2. Scheinman MM, Thorburn D, Abbott JA. Use of atropine in patients with acute myocardial infarction and sinus bradycardia. Circulation 1975;52:627–633.

  • S5.3.2.1-3. Swart G, Brady WJ Jr, DeBehnke DJ, et al. Acute myocardial infarction complicated by hemodynamically unstable bradyarrhythmia: prehospital and ED treatment with atropine. Am J Emerg Med 1999; 17:647–652.

  • S5.3.2.1-4. Warren JV, Lewis RP. Beneficial effects of atropine in the pre-hospital phase of coronary care. Am J Cardiol 1976;37:68–72.

  • S5.3.2.1-5. Gee SW, Karsies TJ. Listeria meningitis-associated bradyarrhythmia treated with isoproterenol. Am J Emerg Med 2015;33:306.e1–306.e2.

  • S5.3.2.1-6. Herman SC, Zhou J. Isoproterenol infusion for treatment of refractory symptomatic bradycardia in parturients with congenital complete heart block. Int J Obstet Anesth 2011;20:361–363. author reply 3.

  • S5.3.2.1-7. Mandel WJ, Hayakawa H, Allen HN, et al. Assessment of sinus node function in patients with the sick sinus syndrome. Circulation 1972; 46:761–769.

  • S5.3.2.1-8. Ogawa H, Inoue T, Miwa S, et al. Heart rate responses to autonomic drugs in sick sinus syndrome–correlation with syncope and electrophysiologic data. Jpn Circ J 1991;55:15–23.

  • S5.3.2.1-9. Sodeck GH, Domanovits H, Meron G, et al. Compromising bradycardia: management in the emergency department. Resuscitation 2007; 73:96–102.

  • S5.3.2.1-10. Strauss HC, Bigger JT, Saroff AL, et al. Electrophysiologic evaluation of sinus node function in patients with sinus node dysfunction. Circulation 1976;53:763–776.

  • S5.3.2.1-11. Morrison LJ, Long J, Vermeulen M, et al. A randomized controlled feasibility trial comparing safety and effectiveness of prehospital pacing versus conventional treatment: ‘PrePACE.’ Resuscitation 2008; 76:341–349.

  • S5.3.2.1-12. Bernheim A, Fatio R, Kiowski W, et al. Atropine often results in complete atrioventricular block or sinus arrest after cardiac transplantation: an unpredictable and dose-independent phenomenon. Transplantation 2004;77:1181–1185.

  • S5.3.2.1-13. Link MS, Berkow LC, Kudenchuk PJ, et al. Part 7: adult advanced cardiovascular life support: 2015 American Heart Association guidelines update for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation 2015;132:S444–S464.

  • S5.3.2.1-14. Dhingra RC, Deedwania PC, Cummings JM, et al. Electrophysiologic effects of lidocaine on sinus node and atrium in patients with and without sinoatrial dysfunction. Circulation 1978;57:448–454.

  • S5.3.2.1-15. Meyer EC, Sommers DK, Schoeman HS, et al. The effect of atropine on heart-rate: a comparison between two ethnic groups. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1988;25:776–777.

  • S5.3.2.1-16. Cossu SF, Rothman SA, Chmielewski IL, et al. The effects of isoproterenol on the cardiac conduction system: site-specific dose dependence. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 1997;8:847–853.

  • S5.3.2.1-17. Nathanson MH, Miller H. The action of norepinephrine, epinephrine and isopropyl norepinephrine on the rhythmic function of the heart. Circulation 1952;6:238–244.

  • S5.3.2.1-18. MacGregor DA, Smith TE, Prielipp RC, et al. Pharmacokinetics of dopamine in healthy male subjects. Anesthesiology 2000;92:338–346.

  • S5.3.2.1-19. Tisdale JE, Patel RV, Webb CR, et al. Proarrhythmic effects of intravenous vasopressors. Ann Pharmacother 1995;29:269–281.

  • S5.3.2.1-20. Morales-Cane I, Valverde-Leon MD, Rodriguez-Borrego MA. Epinephrine in cardiac arrest: systematic review and meta-analysis. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2016;24:e2821.

  • S5.3.2.1-21. Reiffel JA, Bigger JT Jr, Reid DS. The effect of atropine on sinus node function in adults with sinus bradycardia. Am J Cardiol 1975; 35:165.

  • S5.3.2.1-22. Chadda KD, Lichstein E, Gupta PK, et al. Effects of atropine in patients with bradyarrhythmia complicating myocardial infarction. Usefulness of an optimum dose for overdrive. Am J Med 1977;63:503–510.

  • S5.3.2.1-23. Das G, Talmers FN, Weissler AM. New observations on the effects of atropine on the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes in man. Am J Cardiol 1975;36:281–285.

  • S5.3.2.1-24. Aghamohammadi H, Mehrabi S, Mohammad Ali Beigi F. Prevention of bradycardia by atropine sulfate during urological laparoscopic surgery: a randomized controlled trial. Urol J 2009;6:92–95.

  • S5.3.2.1-25. Ferrans VJ, Hibbs RG, Black WC, et al. Isoproterenol-induced myocardial necrosis. A histochemical and electron microscopic study. Am Heart J 1964;68:71–90.

  • S5.3.2.1-26. Kurland G, Williams J, Lewiston NJ. Fatal myocardial toxicity during continuous infusion intravenous isoproterenol therapy of asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1979;63:407–411.

  • S5.3.2.1-27. Neumar RW, Otto CW, Link MS, et al. Part 8: adult advanced cardiovascular life support. 2010 American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care 2010;122:S729–S767.

  • S5.3.2.1-28. Jaffe R, Rubinshtein R, Feigenberg Z, et al. Evaluation of isoproterenol in patients undergoing resuscitation for out-of-hospital asystolic cardiac arrest (the Israel Resuscitation with Isoproterenol Study Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial). Am J Cardiol 2004; 93:1407–1409. a9.

  • S5.3.2.1-29. Jaffe R, Weiss AT, Rosenheck S. Combined isoproterenol and epinephrine for the resuscitation of patients with cardiac asystole secondary to coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol 1996;77:194–195.

  • S5.3.2.1-30. Brunner-La Rocca HP, Weilenmann D, Bracht C, et al. Relative frequency of functional sympathetic and parasympathetic reinnervation after heart transplantation. J Heart Lung Transplant 1998;17:725–728.

5.3.2.2. Therapy of Beta Blocker and Calcium Channel Blocker Mediated Bradycardia Attributable to SND or Atrioventricular Block

  • S5.3.2.2-1. Howarth DM, Dawson AH, Smith AJ, et al. Calcium channel blocking drug overdose: an Australian series. Hum Exp Toxicol 1994; 13:161–166.

  • S5.3.2.2-2. Ramoska EA, Spiller HA, Winter M, et al. A one-year evaluation of calcium channel blocker overdoses: toxicity and treatment. Ann Emerg Med 1993;22:196–200.

  • S5.3.2.2-3. St-Onge M, Dube PA, Gosselin S, et al. Treatment for calcium channel blocker poisoning: a systematic review. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2014; 52:926–944.

  • S5.3.2.2-4. Bailey B. Glucagon in beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker overdoses: a systematic review. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 2003;41:595–602.

  • S5.3.2.2-5. Love JN, Sachdeva DK, Bessman ES, et al. A potential role for glucagon in the treatment of drug-induced symptomatic bradycardia. Chest 1998; 114:323–326.

  • S5.3.2.2-6. Engebretsen KM, Kaczmarek KM, Morgan J, et al. High-dose insulin therapy in beta-blocker and calcium channel-blocker poisoning. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2011;49:277–283.

  • S5.3.2.2-7. Woodward C, Pourmand A, Mazer-Amirshahi M. High dose insulin therapy, an evidence based approach to beta blocker/calcium channel blocker toxicity. Daru 2014;22:36.

  • S5.3.2.2-8. Graudins A, Lee HM, Druda D. Calcium channel antagonist and betablocker overdose: antidotes and adjunct therapies. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016;81:453–461.

  • S5.3.2.2-9. Lavonas EJ, Drennan IR, Gabrielli A, et al. Part 10: special circumstances of resuscitation: 2015 American Heart Association guidelines update for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation 2015;132:S501–S518.

  • S5.3.2.2-10. Crump BJ, Holt DW, Vale JA. Lack of response to intravenous calcium in severe verapamil poisoning. Lancet 1982;2:939–940.

  • S5.3.2.2-11. Ghosh S, Sircar M. Calcium channel blocker overdose: Experience with amlodipine. Indian J Crit Care Med 2008;12:190–193.

  • S5.3.2.2-12. Henry M, Kay MM, Viccellio P. Cardiogenic shock associated with calcium-channel and beta blockers: reversal with intravenous calcium chloride. Am J Emerg Med 1985;3:334–336.

  • S5.3.2.2-13. St-Onge M, Anseeuw K, Cantrell FL, et al. Experts consensus recommendations for the management of calcium channel blocker Poisoning in Adults. Crit Care Med 2017;45:e306–e315.

  • S5.3.2.2-14. Parmley WW. The role of glucagon in cardiac therapy. N Engl J Med 1971;285:801–802.

  • S5.3.2.2-15. Greene SL, Gawarammana I, Wood DM, et al. Relative safety of hyperinsulinaemia/euglycaemia therapy in the management of calcium channel blocker overdose: a prospective observational study. Intensive Care Med 2007;33:2019–2024.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e207

5.3.2.3. Therapy of Digoxin Mediated Bradycardia Attributable to either SND or Atrioventricular Block

  • S5.3.2.3-1. Antman EM, Wenger TL, Butler VP Jr, et al. Treatment of 150 cases of life-threatening digitalis intoxication with digoxin-specific Fab antibody fragments. Final report of a multicenter study. Circulation 1990; 81:1744–1752.

  • S5.3.2.3-2. Chan BS, Buckley NA. Digoxin-specific antibody fragments in the treatment of digoxin toxicity. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2014;52:824–836.

  • S5.3.2.3-3. HickeyAR,WengerTL,CarpenterVP,etal.DigoxinimmuneFab therapy in the management of digitalis intoxication: safety and efficacy results of an observational surveillance study. J Am Coll Cardiol 1991;17:590–598.

  • S5.3.2.3-4. Lapostolle F, Borron SW, Verdier C, et al. Assessment of digoxin antibody use in patients with elevated serum digoxin following chronic or acute exposure. Intensive Care Med 2008;34:1448–1453.

  • S5.3.2.3-5. Lapostolle F, Borron SW, Verdier C, et al. Digoxin-specific Fab fragments as single first-line therapy in digitalis poisoning. Crit Care Med 2008;36:3014–3018.

  • S5.3.2.3-6. Smith TW, Butler VP Jr, Haber E, et al. Treatment of life-threatening digitalis intoxication with digoxin-specific Fab antibody fragments: experience in 26 cases. N Engl J Med 1982;307:1357–1362.

  • S5.3.2.3-7. Wenger TL. Experience with digoxin immune Fab (ovine) in patients with renal impairment. Am J Emerg Med 1991;9:21–23. discussion 33-4.

  • S5.3.2.3-8. Wenger TL, Butler VP Jr, Haber E, et al. Treatment of 63 severely digitalis-toxic patients with digoxin-specific antibody fragments. J Am Coll Cardiol 1985;5:118a–123a.

  • S5.3.2.3-9. Mowry JB, Burdmann EA, Anseeuw K, et al. Extracorporeal treatment for digoxin poisoning: systematic review and recommendations from the EXTRIP Workgroup. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2016;54:103–114.

  • S5.3.2.3-10. Roberts DM, Gallapatthy G, Dunuwille A, et al. Pharmacological treatment of cardiac glycoside poisoning. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 81:488–495.

  • S5.3.2.3-11. Eddleston M, Rajapakse S, Rajakanthan, et al. Anti-digoxin Fab fragments in cardiotoxicity induced by ingestion of yellow oleander: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2000;355:967–972.

  • S5.3.2.3-12. Caspi O, Zylber-Katz E, Gotsman O, et al. Digoxin intoxication in a patient with end-stage renal disease: efficacy of digoxin-specific Fab antibody fragments and peritoneal dialysis. Ther Drug Monit 1997; 19:510–515.

  • S5.3.2.3-13. Putcha N, Allon M. Management of hyperkalemia in dialysis patients. Semin Dial 2007;20:431–439.

5.3.2.4. Aminophylline or Theophylline for Bradycardia Attributable to SND

  • S5.3.2.4-1. Rothman SA, Jeevanandam V, Seeber CP, et al. Electrophysiologic effects of intravenous aminophylline in heart transplant recipients with sinus node dysfunction. J Heart Lung Transplant 1995;14:429–435.

  • S5.3.2.4-2. Redmond JM, Zehr KJ, Gillinov MA, et al. Use of theophylline for treatmentofprolongedsinusnodedysfunctioninhuman orthotopicheart transplantation. J Heart Lung Transplant 1993;12:133–138. discussion 8-9.

  • S5.3.2.4-3. Heinz G, Kratochwill C, Buxbaum P, et al. Immediate normalization of profound sinus node dysfunction by aminophylline after cardiac transplantation. Am J Cardiol 1993;71:346–349.

  • S5.3.2.4-4. Bertolet BD, Eagle DA, Conti JB, et al. Bradycardia after heart transplantation: reversal with theophylline. J Am Coll Cardiol 1996;28:396–399.

  • S5.3.2.4-5. Schulz-Stubner S. The use of small-dose theophylline for the treatment of bradycardia in patients with spinal cord injury. Anesth Analg 2005; 101:1809–1811.

  • S5.3.2.4-6. Sadaka F, Naydenov SK, Ponzillo JJ. Theophylline for bradycardia secondary to cervical spinal cord injury. Neurocrit Care 2010;13:389–392.

  • S5.3.2.4-7. Pasnoori VR, Leesar MA. Use of aminophylline in the treatment of severe symptomatic bradycardia resistant to atropine. Cardiol Rev 2004; 12:65–68.

  • S5.3.2.4-8. Lou Q, Glukhov AV, Hansen B, et al. Tachy-brady arrhythmias: the critical role of adenosine-induced sinoatrial conduction block in posttachycardia pauses. Heart Rhythm 2013;10:110–118.

  • S5.3.2.4-9. Ogilvie RI. Clinical pharmacokinetics of theophylline. Clin Pharmacokinet 1978;3:267–293.

  • S5.3.2.4-10. Hurley KF, Magee K, Green R. Aminophylline for bradyasystolic cardiac arrest in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015;CD006781.

  • S5.3.2.4-11. Hamon D, Taleski J, Vaseghi M, et al. Arrhythmias in the heart transplant patient. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2014;3:149–155.

  • S5.3.2.4-12. Melton IC, Gilligan DM, Wood MA, et al. Optimal cardiac pacing after heart transplantation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1999;22:1510–1527.

  • S5.3.2.4-13. Woo GW, Schofield RS, Pauly DF, et al. Incidence, predictors, and outcomes of cardiac pacing after cardiac transplantation: an 11-year retrospective analysis. Transplantation 2008;85:1216–1218.

  • S5.3.2.4-14. Manogue M, Hirsh DS, Lloyd M. Cardiac electrophysiology of patients with spinal cord injury. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:920–927.

  • S5.3.2.4-15. Lehmann KG, Lane JG, Piepmeier JM, et al. Cardiovascular abnormalities accompanying acute spinal cord injury in humans: incidence, time course and severity. J Am Coll Cardiol 1987;10:46–52.

  • S5.3.2.4-16. Bernheim A, Fatio R, Kiowski W, et al. Atropine often results in complete atrioventricular block or sinus arrest after cardiac transplantation: an unpredictable and dose-independent phenomenon. Transplantation 2004;77:1181–1185.

  • S5.3.2.4-17. Link MS, Berkow LC, Kudenchuk PJ, et al. Part 7: adult advanced cardiovascular life support: 2015 American Heart Association guidelines update for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation 2015;132:S444–S464.

  • S5.3.2.4-18. Epstein AE, Hirschowitz BI, Kirklin JK, et al. Evidence for a central site of action to explain the negative chronotropic effect of atropine: studies on the human transplanted heart. J Am Coll Cardiol 1990;15:1610–1617.

  • S5.3.2.4-19. Weant KA, Kilpatrick M, Jaikumar S. Aminophylline for the treatment of symptomatic bradycardia and asystole secondary to cervical spine injury. Neurocrit Care 2007;7:250–252.

  • S5.3.2.4-20. Brady WJ, Swart G, DeBehnke DJ, et al. The efficacy of atropine in the treatment of hemodynamically unstable bradycardia and atrioventricular block: prehospital and emergency department considerations. Resuscitation 1999;41:47–55.

  • S5.3.2.4-21. Scheinman MM, Thorburn D, Abbott JA. Use of atropine in patients with acute myocardial infarction and sinus bradycardia. Circulation 1975;52:627–633.

  • S5.3.2.4-22. Swart G, Brady WJ Jr, DeBehnke DJ, et al. Acute myocardial infarction complicated by hemodynamically unstable bradyarrhythmia: prehospital and ED treatment with atropine. Am J Emerg Med 1999;17:647–652.

  • S5.3.2.4-23. Warren JV, Lewis RP. Beneficial effects of atropine in the pre-hospital phase of coronary care. Am J Cardiol 1976;37:68–72.

  • S5.3.2.4-24. Feigl D, Ashkenazy J, Kishon Y. Early and late atrioventricular block in acute inferior myocardial infarction. J Am Coll Cardiol 1984;4:35–38.

  • S5.3.2.4-25. Morrison LJ, Long J, Vermeulen M, et al. A randomized controlled feasibility trial comparing safety and effectiveness of prehospital pacing versus conventional treatment: ‘PrePACE.’ Resuscitation 2008;76:341–349.

  • S5.3.2.4-26. Mandel WJ, Hayakawa H, Allen HN, et al. Assessment of sinus node function in patients with the sick sinus syndrome. Circulation 1972; 46:761–769.

  • S5.3.2.4-27. Ogawa H, Inoue T, Miwa S, et al. Heart rate responses to autonomic drugs in sick sinus syndrome–correlation with syncope and electrophysiologic data. Jpn Circ J 1991;55:15–23.

  • S5.3.2.4-28. Strauss HC, Bigger JT, Saroff AL, et al. Electrophysiologic evaluation of sinus node function in patients with sinus node dysfunction. Circulation 1976;53:763–776.

  • S5.3.2.4-29. Gee SW, Karsies TJ. Listeria meningitis-associated bradyarrhythmia treated with isoproterenol. Am J Emerg Med 2015;33:306.e1–306.e2.

  • S5.3.2.4-30. Herman SC, Zhou J. Isoproterenol infusion for treatment of refractory symptomatic bradycardia in parturients with congenital complete heart block. Int J Obstet Anesth 2011;20:361–363. author reply 3.

  • S5.3.2.4-31. Sodeck GH, Domanovits H, Meron G, et al. Compromising bradycardia: management in the emergency department. Resuscitation 2007; 73:96–102.

  • S5.3.2.4-32. Chihrin SM, Mohamed U, Yee R, et al. Utility of isoproterenol in unmasking latent escape rhythm in pacemaker dependent patients undergoing pacemaker replacement. Am J Cardiol 2008;101:631–633.

  • S5.3.2.4-33. Link MS, Berkow LC, Kudenchuk PJ, et al. Part 7: adult advanced cardiovascular life support. 2015 American Heart Association guidelines update for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation 2015;132:S444–S464.

  • S5.3.2.4-34. Howarth DM, Dawson AH, Smith AJ, et al. Calcium channel blocking drug overdose: an Australian series. Hum Exp Toxicol 1994;13:161–166.

  • S5.3.2.4-35. Ramoska EA, Spiller HA, Winter M, et al. A one-year evaluation of calcium channel blocker overdoses: toxicity and treatment. Ann Emerg Med 1993;22:196–200.

  • S5.3.2.4-36. St-Onge M, Dube PA, Gosselin S, et al. Treatment for calcium channel blocker poisoning: a systematic review. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2014; 52:926–944.

  • S5.3.2.4-37. Bailey B. Glucagon in beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker overdoses: a systematic review. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 2003;41:595–602.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e208

S5.3.2.4-38. Love JN, Sachdeva DK, Bessman ES, et al. A potential role for glucagon in the treatment of drug-induced symptomatic bradycardia. Chest 1998; 114:323–326.

  • S5.3.2.4-39. Engebretsen KM, Kaczmarek KM, Morgan J, et al. High-dose insulin therapy in beta-blocker and calcium channel-blocker poisoning. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2011;49:277–283.

  • S5.3.2.4-40. Greene SL, Gawarammana I, Wood DM, et al. Relative safety of hyperinsulinaemia/euglycaemia therapy in the management of calcium channel blocker overdose: a prospective observational study. Intensive Care Med 2007;33:2019–2024.

  • S5.3.2.4-41. Antman EM, Wenger TL, Butler VP Jr, et al. Treatment of 150 cases of life-threatening digitalis intoxication with digoxin-specific Fab antibody fragments. Final report of a multicenter study. Circulation 1990; 81:1744–1752.

  • S5.3.2.4-42. Chan BS, Buckley NA. Digoxin-specific antibody fragments in the treatment of digoxin toxicity. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2014;52:824–836.

  • S5.3.2.4-43. Hickey AR, Wenger TL, Carpenter VP, et al. Digoxin immune Fab therapy in the management of digitalis intoxication: safety and efficacy results of an observational surveillance study. J Am Coll Cardiol 1991; 17:590–598.

  • S5.3.2.4-44. Lapostolle F, Borron SW, Verdier C, et al. Digoxin-specific Fab fragments as single first-line therapy in digitalis poisoning. Crit Care Med 2008;36:3014–3018.

  • S5.3.2.4-45. Lapostolle F, Borron SW, Verdier C, et al. Assessment of digoxin antibody use in patients with elevated serum digoxin following chronic or acute exposure. Intensive Care Med 2008;34:1448–1453.

  • S5.3.2.4-46. Smith TW, Butler VP Jr, Haber E, et al. Treatment of life-threatening digitalis intoxication with digoxin-specific Fab antibody fragments: experience in 26 cases. N Engl J Med 1982;307:1357–1362.

  • S5.3.2.4-47. Wenger TL. Experience with digoxin immune Fab (ovine) in patients with renal impairment. Am J Emerg Med 1991;9:21–23. discussion 33-4.

  • S5.3.2.4-48. Wenger TL, Butler VP Jr, Haber E, et al. Treatment of 63 severely digitalis-toxic patients with digoxin-specific antibody fragments. J Am Coll Cardiol 1985;5:118a–123a.

5.3.3. Temporary Pacing for Bradycardia Attributable to SND

  • S5.3.3-1. Hedges JR, Feero S, Shultz B, et al. Prehospital transcutaneous cardiac pacing for symptomatic bradycardia. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1991; 14:1473–1478.

  • S5.3.3-2. Gallagher JJ, Smith WM, Kerr CR, et al. Esophageal pacing: a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. Circulation 1982;65:336–341.

  • S5.3.3-3. Smith I, Monk TG, White PF. Comparison of transesophageal atrial pacing with anticholinergic drugs for the treatment of intraoperative bradycardia. Anesth Analg 1994;78:245–252.

  • S5.3.3-4. López Ayerbe J, Villuendas Sabaté R, García García C, et al. Temporary pacemakers: current use and complications. Revista Espa~nola de Cardiología (English Edition) 2004;57:1045–1052.

  • S5.3.3-5. Ferguson JD, Banning AP, Bashir Y. Randomised trial of temporary cardiac pacing with semirigid and balloon-flotation electrode catheters. Lancet 1997;349:1883.

  • S5.3.3-6. Austin JL, Preis LK, Crampton RS, et al. Analysis of pacemaker malfunction and complications of temporary pacing in the coronary care unit. Am J Cardiol 1982;49:301–306.

  • S5.3.3-7. Betts TR. Regional survey of temporary transvenous pacing procedures and complications. Postgrad Med J 2003;79:463–465.

  • S5.3.3-8. Bjornstad CC, Gjertsen E, Thorup F, et al. Temporary cardiac pacemaker treatment in five Norwegian regional hospitals. Scand Cardiovasc J 2012; 46:137–143.

  • S5.3.3-9. Garcia Guerrero JJ, Fernandez de la Concha Castaneda J, Lopez Quero D, et al. Lower incidence of venous thrombosis with temporary activefixation lead implantation in mobile patients. Europace 2010; 12:1604–1607.

  • S5.3.3-10. Hynes JK, Holmes DR Jr, Harrison CE. Five-year experience with temporary pacemaker therapy in the coronary care unit. Mayo Clin Proc 1983; 58:122–126.

  • S5.3.3-11. Jou YL, Hsu HP, Tuan TC, et al. Trends of temporary pacemaker implant and underlying disease substrate. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2010; 33:1475–1484.

  • S5.3.3-12. Jowett NI, Thompson DR, Pohl JE. Temporary transvenous cardiac pacing: 6 years experience in one coronary care unit. Postgrad Med J 1989; 65:211–215.

  • S5.3.3-13. McCann P. A review of temporary cardiac pacing wires. Indian Pacing Electrophysiol J 2007;7:40–49.

S5.3.3-14. Mu~noz Bono J, Prieto Palomino MA, Macías Guarasa I, et al. Efficacy and safety of non-permanent transvenous pacemaker implantation in an intensive care unit. Medicina Intensiva (English Edition) 2011;35:410–416. S5.3.3-15. Nolewajka AJ, Goddard MD, Brown TC. Temporary transvenous pacing and femoral vein thrombosis. Circulation 1980;62:646–650.

  • S5.3.3-16. Sodeck GH, Domanovits H, Meron G, et al. Compromising bradycardia: management in the emergency department. Resuscitation 2007; 73:96–102.

  • S5.3.3-17. Weinstein J, Gnoj J, Mazzara JT, et al. Temporary transvenous pacing via the percutaneous femoral vein approach. A prospective study of 100 cases. Am Heart J 1973;85:695–705.

  • S5.3.3-18. Bektas F, Soyuncu S. The efficacy of transcutaneous cardiac pacing in. Am J Emerg Med 2016;34:2090–2093.

  • S5.3.3-19. Clinton JE, Zoll PM, Zoll R, et al. Emergency noninvasive external cardiac pacing. J Emerg Med 1985;2:155–162.

  • S5.3.3-20. Morrison LJ, Long J, Vermeulen M, et al. A randomized controlled feasibility trial comparing safety and effectiveness of prehospital pacing versus conventional treatment: ‘PrePACE.’ Resuscitation 2008;76:341–349.

  • S5.3.3-21. Sherbino J, Verbeek PR, MacDonald RD, et al. Prehospital transcutaneous cardiac pacing for symptomatic bradycardia or bradyasystolic cardiac arrest: a systematic review. Resuscitation 2006;70:193–200.

  • S5.3.3-22. Zoll PM, Zoll RH, Falk RH, et al. External noninvasive temporary cardiac pacing: clinical trials. Circulation 1985;71:937–944.

  • S5.3.3-23. Murphy JJ. Current practice and complications of temporary transvenous cardiac pacing. BMJ 1996;312:1134.

  • S5.3.3-24. Epstein AE, DiMarco JP, Ellenbogen KA, et al. ACC/AHA/HRS 2008 guidelines for device-based therapy of cardiac rhythm abnormalities: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines (Writing Committee to Revise the ACC/AHA/NASPE 2002 Guideline Update for Implantation of Cardiac Pacemakers and Antiarrhythmia Devices). Developed in collaboration with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2008;51:e1–e62.

  • S5.3.3-25. Silver MD, Goldschlager N. Temporary transvenous cardiac pacing in the critical care setting. Chest 1988;93:607–613.

  • S5.3.3-26. McLeod AA, Jokhi PP. Pacemaker induced ventricular fibrillation in coronary care units. BMJ 2004;328:1249–1250.

  • S5.3.3-27. Braun MU, Rauwolf T, Bock M, et al. Percutaneous lead implantation connected to an external device in stimulation-dependent patients with systemic infection–a prospective and controlled study. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2006;29:875–879.

  • S5.3.3-28. Chauhan A, Grace AA, Newell SA, et al. Early complications after dual chamber versus single chamber pacemaker implantation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1994;17:2012–2015.

  • S5.3.3-29. Polyzos KA, Konstantelias AA, Falagas ME. Risk factors for cardiac implantable electronic device infection: a systematic review and metaanalysis. Europace 2015;17:767–777.

  • S5.3.3-30. Cummins RO, Graves JR, Larsen MP, et al. Out-of-hospital transcutaneous pacing by emergency medical technicians in patients with asystolic cardiac arrest. N Engl J Med 1993;328:1377–1382.

  • S5.3.3-31. Im SH, Han MH, Kim SH, et al. Transcutaneous temporary cardiac pacing in carotid stenting: noninvasive prevention of angioplasty-induced bradycardia and hypotension. J Endovasc Ther 2008;15:110–116.

5.4. Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

5.4.1. General Principles of Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

S5.4.1-1. Brodsky M, Wu D, Denes P, et al. Arrhythmias documented by 24 hour continuous electrocardiographic monitoring in 50 male medical students without apparent heart disease. Am J Cardiol 1977;39:390–395.

  • S5.4.1-2. Meytes I, Kaplinsky E, Yahini JH, et al. Wenckebach A-V block: a frequent feature following heavy physical training. Am Heart J 1975;90:426–430.

  • S5.4.1-3. Northcote RJ, Canning GP, Ballantyne D. Electrocardiographic findings in male veteran endurance athletes. Br Heart J 1989;61:155–160.

  • S5.4.1-4. Viitasalo MT, Kala R, Eisalo A. Ambulatory electrocardiographic recording in endurance athletes. Br Heart J 1982;47:213–220.

  • S5.4.1-5. Gadler F, Valzania C, Linde C. Current use of implantable electrical devices in Sweden: data from the Swedish pacemaker and implantable cardioverterdefibrillator registry. Europace 2015;17:69–77.

  • S5.4.1-6. Armaganijan LV, Toff WD, Nielsen JC, et al. Are elderly patients at increased risk of complications following pacemaker implantation? A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012; 35:131–134.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e209

  • S5.4.1-7. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

S5.4.1-8. George KP, Wolfe LA, Burggraf GW. The ‘athletic heart syndrome.’ A critical review. Sports Med 1991;11:300–330. S5.4.1-9. Lee JZ, Ling J, Diehl NN, et al. Mortality and cerebrovascular events after heart rhythm disorder management procedures. Circulation 2018; 137:24–33.

5.4.2. Transient/Reversible Causes (Including Medications) of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

  • S5.4.2-1. Sodeck GH, Domanovits H, Meron G, et al. Compromising bradycardia: management in the emergency department. Resuscitation 2007;73:96–102.

  • S5.4.2-2. Klein I, Danzi S. Thyroid disease and the heart. Circulation 2007; 116:1725–1735.

  • S5.4.2-3. Klein I, Ojamaa K. Thyroid hormone and the cardiovascular system. N Engl J Med 2001;344:501–509.

  • S5.4.2-4. Ahmad S. Hypothyroidism-induced bradycardia. J Fam Pract 1995; 41:432–433.

  • S5.4.2-5. Schoenmakers N, de Graaff WE, Peters RH. Hypothyroidism as the cause of atrioventricular block in an elderly patient. Neth Heart J 2008;16:57–59.

  • S5.4.2-6. Crowley WF Jr, Ridgway EC, Bough EW, et al. Noninvasive evaluation of cardiac function in hypothyroidism. Response to gradual thyroxine replacement. N Engl J Med 1977;296:1–6.

5.4.3. Additional Testing of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

  • S5.4.3-1. Alboni P, Filippi L, Pirani R, et al. Reproducibility of electrophysiological parameters of sinus node following autonomic blockade. Int J Cardiol 1983; 4:431–442.

  • S5.4.3-2. Bergfeldt L, Vallin H, Rosenqvist M, et al. Sinus node recovery time assessment revisited: role of pharmacologic blockade of the autonomic nervous system. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 1996;7:95–101.

  • S5.4.3-3. Narula OS, Shantha N, Vasquez M, et al. A new method for measurement of sinoatrial conduction time. Circulation 1978;58:706–714.

  • S5.4.3-4. Reiffel JA, Kuehnert MJ. Electrophysiological testing of sinus node function: diagnostic and prognostic application-including updated information from sinus node electrograms. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1994; 17:349–365.

  • S5.4.3-5. Strauss HC, Saroff AL, Bigger JT Jr, et al. Premature atrial stimulation as a key to the understanding of sinoatrial conduction in man. Presentation of data and critical review of the literature. Circulation 1973; 47:86–93.

  • S5.4.3-6. Denniss AR, Ross DL, Richards DA, et al. Electrophysiologic studies in patients with unexplained syncope. Int J Cardiol 1992;35:211–217.

  • S5.4.3-7. de Marneffe M, Jacobs P, Englert M. Reproducibility of electrophysiologic parameters of extrinsic sinus node function in patients with and without sick sinus syndrome. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1986;9:482–489.

  • S5.4.3-8. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

  • S5.4.3-9. Al-Khatib SM, Stevenson WG, Ackerman MJ, et al. 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS guideline for management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018; 72:e91–e220.

  • S5.4.3-10. Gomes JA, Kang PS, El-Sherif N. The sinus node electrogram in patients with and without sick sinus syndrome: techniques and correlation between directly measured and indirectly estimated sinoatrial conduction time. Circulation 1982;66:864–873.

5.4.4. Permanent Pacing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

  • S5.4.4-1. Sharma AD, Rizo-Patron C, Hallstrom AP, et al. Percent right ventricular pacing predicts outcomes in the DAVID trial. Heart Rhythm 2005; 2:830–834.

  • S5.4.4-2. Sweeney MO, Prinzen FW. A new paradigm for physiologic ventricular pacing. J Am Coll Cardiol 2006;47:282–288.

  • S5.4.4-3. Alboni P, Menozzi C, Brignole M, et al. Effects of permanent pacemaker and oral theophylline in sick sinus syndrome the THEOPACE study: a randomized controlled trial. Circulation 1997;96:260–266.

  • S5.4.4-4. Saito D, Matsubara K, Yamanari H, et al. Effects of oral theophylline on sick sinus syndrome. J Am Coll Cardiol 1993;21:1199–1204.

  • S5.4.4-5. Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2016 ACC/AHA/HFSA focused update on new pharmacological therapy for heart failure: an update of the 2013 ACCF/AHA Guideline for the management of heart failure: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Failure Society of America. Circulation 2016;134:e282–e293.

  • S5.4.4-6. Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;62:e147–e239.

  • S5.4.4-7. O’Gara PT, Kushner FG, Ascheim DD, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;61:e78–e140.

  • S5.4.4-8. Jackson LR 2nd, Rathakrishnan B, Campbell K, et al. Sinus node dysfunction and atrial fibrillation: a reversible phenomenon? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2017;40:442–450.

  • S5.4.4-9. Menozzi C, Brignole M, Alboni P, et al. The natural course of untreated sick sinus syndrome and identification of the variables predictive of unfavorable outcome. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:1205–1209.

  • S5.4.4-10. Alt E, Volker R, Wirtzfeld A, et al. Survival and follow-up after pacemaker implantation: a comparison of patients with sick sinus syndrome, complete heart block, and atrial fibrillation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1985;8:849–855.

  • S5.4.4-11. Hocini M, Sanders P, Deisenhofer I, et al. Reverse remodeling of sinus node function after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation in patients with prolonged sinus pauses. Circulation 2003;108:1172–1175.

  • S5.4.4-12. Chen YW, Bai R, Lin T, et al. Pacing or ablation: which is better for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation-related tachycardia-bradycardia syndrome? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2014;37:403–411.

  • S5.4.4-13. Lamas GA, Knight JD, Sweeney MO, et al. Impact of rate-modulated pacing on quality of life and exercise capacity–evidence from the Advanced Elements of Pacing Randomized Controlled Trial (ADEPT). Heart Rhythm 2007;4:1125–1132.

  • S5.4.4-14. Maity AK, Ghosh SP, Dasbiswas A, et al. Haemodynamic advantage with single chamber rate responsive pacemakers over dual chamber pacemakers during exercise in chronotropic incompetence. Indian Heart J 1992;44:231–234.

  • S5.4.4-15. Santini M, Ricci R, Puglisi A, et al. Long-term haemodynamic and antiarrhythmic benefits of DDIR versus DDI pacing mode in sick sinus syndrome and chronotropic incompetence. G Ital Cardiol 1997;27:892–900.

  • 5.4.4.1. Permanent Pacing Techniques and Methods for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to SND

  • S5.4.4.1-1. Andersen HR, Nielsen JC, Thomsen PE, et al. Long-term follow-up of patients from a randomised trial of atrial versus ventricular pacing for sicksinus syndrome. Lancet 1997;350:1210–1216.

  • S5.4.4.1-2. Connolly SJ, Kerr CR, Gent M, et al. Effects of physiologic pacing versus ventricular pacing on the risk of stroke and death due to cardiovascular causes. Canadian Trial of Physiologic Pacing Investigators. N Engl J Med 2000;342:1385–1391.

  • S5.4.4.1-3. Lamas GA, Lee KL, Sweeney MO, et al. Ventricular pacing or dualchamber pacing for sinus-node dysfunction. N Engl J Med 2002; 346:1854–1862.

  • S5.4.4.1-4. Lamas GA, Orav EJ, Stambler BS, et al. Quality of life and clinical outcomes in elderly patients treated with ventricular pacing as compared with dual-chamber pacing. Pacemaker Selection in the Elderly Investigators. N Engl J Med 1998;338:1097–1104.

  • S5.4.4.1-5. Brandt NH, Kirkfeldt RE, Nielsen JC, et al. Single lead atrial vs. dual chamber pacing in sick sinus syndrome: extended register-based follow-up in the DANPACE trial. Europace 2017;19:1981–1987.

  • S5.4.4.1-6. Sweeney MO, Bank AJ, Nsah E, et al. Minimizing ventricular pacing to reduce atrial fibrillation in sinus-node disease. N Engl J Med 2007; 357:1000–1008.

  • S5.4.4.1-7. Gillis AM, Russo AM, Ellenbogen KA, et al. HRS/ACCF expert consensus statement on pacemaker device and mode selection. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012;60:682–703.

  • S5.4.4.1-8. Dretzke J, Toff WD, Lip GY, et al. Dual chamber versus single chamber ventricular pacemakers for sick sinus syndrome and atrioventricular block. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004;CD003710.

  • S5.4.4.1-9. Andersen HR, Nielsen JC, Thomsen PE, et al. Atrioventricular conduction during long-term follow-up of patients with sick sinus syndrome. Circulation 1998;98:1315–1321.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e210

  • S5.4.4.1-10. Brandt J, Anderson H, Fahraeus T, et al. Natural history of sinus node disease treated with atrial pacing in 213 patients: implications for selection of stimulation mode. J Am Coll Cardiol 1992;20:633–639.

  • S5.4.4.1-11. Kristensen L, Nielsen JC, Pedersen AK, et al. AV block and changes in pacing mode during long-term follow-up of 399 consecutive patients with sick sinus syndrome treated with an AAI/AAIR pacemaker. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2001;24:358–365.

  • S5.4.4.1-12. Sutton R, Kenny RA. The natural history of sick sinus syndrome. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1986;9:1110–1114.

  • S5.4.4.1-13. Nahlawi M, Waligora M, Spies SM, et al. Left ventricular function during and after right ventricular pacing. J Am Coll Cardiol 2004; 44:1883–1888.

  • S5.4.4.1-14. Sweeney MO, Hellkamp AS, Ellenbogen KA, et al. Adverse effect of ventricular pacing on heart failure and atrial fibrillation among patients with normal baseline QRS duration in a clinical trial of pacemaker therapy for sinus node dysfunction. Circulation 2003;107:2932–2937.

6. Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

6.2. Clinical Presentation

  • S6.2-1. Santini M, Castro A, Giada F, et al. Prevention of syncope through permanent cardiac pacing in patients with bifascicular block and syncope of unexplained origin: the PRESS study. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2013;6:101–107.

  • S6.2-2. Ando G, Versaci F. Ventriculo-atrial gradient due to first degree atrioventricular block: a case report. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2005;5:23.

  • S6.2-3. Barold SS, Ilercil A, Leonelli F, et al. First-degree atrioventricular block. Clinical manifestations, indications for pacing, pacemaker management & consequences during cardiac resynchronization. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2006;17:139–152.

  • S6.2-4. Carroz P, Delay D, Girod G. Pseudo-pacemaker syndrome in a young woman with first-degree atrio-ventricular block. Europace 2010;12:594–596.

  • S6.2-5. Brignole M, Deharo JC, De Roy L, et al. Syncope due to idiopathic paroxysmal atrioventricular block: long-term follow-up of a distinct form of atrioventricular block. J Am Coll Cardiol 2011;58:167–173.

  • S6.2-6. Brignole M, Menozzi C, Moya A, et al. Mechanism of syncope in patients with bundle branch block and negative electrophysiological test. Circulation 2001;104:2045–2050.

  • S6.2-7. Guerrero-Marquez FJ, Arana-Rueda E, Pedrote A. Idiopathic paroxysmal atrio-ventricular block. What is the mechanism? J Atr Fibrillation 2016; 9:1449.

  • S6.2-8. Marti-Almor J, Cladellas M, Bazan V, et al. Long-term mortality predictors in patients with chronic bifascicular block. Europace 2009;11:1201–1207.

  • S6.2-9. Moya A, Garcia-Civera R, Croci F, et al. Diagnosis, management, and outcomes of patients with syncope and bundle branch block. Eur Heart J 2011;32:1535–1541.

6.3. Acute Management

6.3.1. Acute Management of Reversible Causes of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.3.1-1. Antman EM, Wenger TL, Butler VP Jr, et al. Treatment of 150 cases of life-threatening digitalis intoxication with digoxin-specific Fab antibody fragments. Final report of a multicenter study. Circulation 1990; 81:1744–1752.

  • S6.3.1-2. Forrester JD, Mead P. Third-degree heart block associated with Lyme carditis: review of published cases. Clin Infect Dis 2014;59:996–1000.

  • S6.3.1-3. Hickey AR, Wenger TL, Carpenter VP, et al. Digoxin immune Fab therapy in the management of digitalis intoxication: safety and efficacy results of an observational surveillance study. J Am Coll Cardiol 1991;17:590–598.

  • S6.3.1-4. van der Linde MR. Lyme carditis: clinical characteristics of 105 cases. Scand J Infect Dis Suppl 1991;77:81–84.

  • S6.3.1-5. McAlister HF, Klementowicz PT, Andrews C, et al. Lyme carditis: an important cause of reversible heart block. Ann Intern Med 1989; 110:339–345.

  • S6.3.1-6. Kenneback G, Tabrizi F, Lindell P, et al. High-degree atrioventricular block during anti-arrhythmic drug treatment: use of a pacemaker with a bradycardia-detection algorithm to study the time course after drug withdrawal. Europace 2007;9:186–191.

  • S6.3.1-7. Knudsen MB, Thogersen AM, Hjortshoj SP, et al. The impact of drug discontinuation in patients treated with temporary pacemaker due to atrioventricular block. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2013;24:1255–1258.

  • S6.3.1-8. Osmonov D, Erdinler I, Ozcan KS, et al. Management of patients with druginduced atrioventricular block. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012; 35:804–810.

  • S6.3.1-9. Zeltser D, Justo D, Halkin A, et al. Drug-induced atrioventricular block: prognosis after discontinuation of the culprit drug. J Am Coll Cardiol 2004;44:105–108.

  • S6.3.1-10. Kandolin R, Lehtonen J, Kupari M. Cardiac sarcoidosis and giant cell myocarditis as causes of atrioventricular block in young and middleaged adults. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2011;4:303–309.

  • S6.3.1-11. Sadek MM, Yung D, Birnie DH, et al. Corticosteroid therapy for cardiac sarcoidosis: a systematic review. Can J Cardiol 2013;29:1034–1041.

  • S6.3.1-12. Ozcan KS, Osmonov D, Erdinler I, et al. Atrioventricular block in patients with thyroid dysfunction: prognosis after treatment with hormone supplementation or antithyroid medication. J Cardiol 2012;60:327–332.

  • S6.3.1-13. Fish AE, Pride YB, Pinto DS. Lyme carditis. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2008;22:275–288. vi.

  • S6.3.1-14. Robinson ML, Kobayashi T, Higgins Y, et al. Lyme carditis. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2015;29:255–268.

  • S6.3.1-14a. Hauptman PJ, Blume SW, Lewis EF, Ward S. Digoxin toxicity and use of digoxin immune fab: insights from a national hospital database. JACC Heart Fail 2016;4:357–364.

  • S6.3.1-15. Birnie DH, Nery PB, Ha AC, et al. Cardiac sarcoidosis. J Am Coll Cardiol 2016;68:411–421.

  • S6.3.1-16. Risgaard B, Elming H, Jensen GV, et al. Waiting for a pacemaker: is it dangerous? Europace 2012;14:975–980.

  • S6.3.1-17. Birnie DH, Sauer WH, Bogun F, et al. HRS expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and management of arrhythmias associated with cardiac sarcoidosis. Heart Rhythm 2014;11:1305–1323.

  • S6.3.1-18. Chatzitomaris A, Scheeler M, Gotzmann M, et al. Second degree AV block and severely impaired contractility in cardiac myxedema: a case report. Thyroid Res 2015;8:6.

6.3.2. Acute Medical Therapy for Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.3.2-1. Brady WJ, Swart G, DeBehnke DJ, et al. The efficacy of atropine in the treatment of hemodynamically unstable bradycardia and atrioventricular block: prehospital and emergency department considerations. Resuscitation 1999;41:47–55.

  • S6.3.2-2. Feigl D, Ashkenazy J, Kishon Y. Early and late atrioventricular block in acute inferior myocardial infarction. J Am Coll Cardiol 1984;4:35–38.

  • S6.3.2-3. Sodeck GH, Domanovits H, Meron G, et al. Compromising bradycardia: management in the emergency department. Resuscitation 2007; 73:96–102.

  • S6.3.2-4. Chihrin SM, Mohamed U, Yee R, et al. Utility of isoproterenol in unmasking latent escape rhythm in pacemaker dependent patients undergoing pacemaker replacement. Am J Cardiol 2008;101:631–633.

  • S6.3.2-5. Dhingra RC, Winslow E, Pouget JM, et al. The effect of isoproterenol on atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction. Am J Cardiol 1973; 32:629–636.

  • S6.3.2-6. Hatle L, Rokseth R. Conservative treatment of AV block in acute myocardial infarction. Results in 105 consecutive patients. Br Heart J 1971; 33:595–600.

  • S6.3.2-7. Morrison LJ, Long J, Vermeulen M, et al. A randomized controlled feasibility trial comparing safety and effectiveness of prehospital pacing versus conventional treatment: ‘PrePACE.’ Resuscitation 2008;76:341–349.

  • S6.3.2-8. Altun A, Kirdar C, Ozbay G. Effect of aminophylline in patients with atropine-resistant late advanced atrioventricular block during acute inferior myocardial infarction. Clin Cardiol 1998;21:759–762.

  • S6.3.2-9. Bertolet BD, McMurtrie EB, Hill JA, et al. Theophylline for the treatment of atrioventricular block after myocardial infarction. Ann Intern Med 1995;123:509–511.

  • S6.3.2-10. Goodfellow J, Walker PR. Reversal of atropine-resistant atrioventricular block with intravenous aminophylline in the early phase of inferior wall acute myocardial infarction following treatment with streptokinase. Eur Heart J 1995;16:862–865.

  • S6.3.2-11. Hurley KF, Magee K, Green R. Aminophylline for bradyasystolic cardiac arrest in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015;CD006781.

  • S6.3.2-12. Abu-Laban RB, McIntyre CM, Christenson JM, et al. Aminophylline in bradyasystolic cardiac arrest: a randomised placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2006;367:1577–1584.

6.3.3. Temporary Pacing for Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.3.3-1. Bjornstad CC, Gjertsen E, Thorup F, et al. Temporary cardiac pacemaker treatment in five Norwegian regional hospitals. Scand Cardiovasc J 2012; 46:137–143.

  • S6.3.3-2. Murphy JJ. Current practice and complications of temporary transvenous cardiac pacing. BMJ 1996;312:1134.

  • S6.3.3-3. Betts TR. Regional survey of temporary transvenous pacing procedures and complications. Postgrad Med J 2003;79:463–465.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e211

S6.3.3-4. Hynes JK, Holmes DR Jr, Harrison CE. Five-year experience with temporary pacemaker therapy in the coronary care unit. Mayo Clin Proc 1983; 58:122–126.

S6.3.3-4.Hynes JK, Holmes DR Jr, Harrison CE. Five-year experience with tempo- rary pacemaker therapy in the coronary care unit. Mayo Clin Proc 1983; 58:122–126.
S6.3.3-5.López Ayerbe J, Villuendas Sabaté R, García García C, et al. Temporary
pacemakers: current use and complications. Revista Espa~nola de Cardio-
logía (English Edition) 2004;57:1045–1052.
S6.3.3-6.Ferguson JD, Banning AP, Bashir Y. Randomised trial of temporary car-
diac pacing with semirigid and balloon-fotation electrode catheters. Lan-
cet 1997;349:1883.
S6.3.3-7.Lang R, David D, Klein HO, et al. The use of the balloon-tippedfoating
catheter in temporary transvenous cardiac pacing. Pacing Clin Electrophy-
siol 1981;4:491–496.
S6.3.3-8.Braun MU, Rauwolf T, Bock M, et al. Percutaneous lead implantation
connected to an external device in stimulation-dependent patients with
systemic infection–a prospective and controlled study. Pacing Clin Elec-
trophysiol 2006;29:875–879.
S6.3.3-9.Chihrin SM, Mohammed U, Yee R, et al. Utility and cost effectiveness of
temporary pacing using activefxation leads and an externally placed reus-
able permanent pacemaker. Am J Cardiol 2006;98:1613–1615.
S6.3.3-10.de Cock CC, Van Campen CM, In’t Veld JA, et al. Utility and safety of
prolonged temporary transvenous pacing using an active-fxation lead:
comparison with a conventional lead. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2003;
26:1245–1248.
S6.3.3-11.Kawata H, Pretorius V, Phan H, et al. Utility and safety of temporary pac-
ing using activefxation leads and externalized re-usable permanent pace-
makers after lead extraction. Europace 2013;15:1287–1291.
S6.3.3-12.Kornberger A, Schmid E, Kalender G, et al. Bridge to recovery or permanent
system implantation: an eight-year single-center experience in transvenous
semipermanent pacing. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2013;36:1096–1103.
S6.3.3-13.Lever N, Ferguson JD, Bashir Y, et al. Prolonged temporary cardiac pac-
ing using subcutaneous tunnelled active-fxation permanent pacing leads.
Heart 2003;89:209–210.
S6.3.3-14.Zei PC, Eckart RE, Epstein LM. Modifed temporary cardiac pacing using
transvenous active fxation leads and external re-sterilized pulse genera-
tors. J Am Coll Cardiol 2006;47:1487–1489.
S6.3.3-15.Morrison LJ, Long J, Vermeulen M, et al. A randomized controlled feasi-
bility trial comparing safety and effectiveness of prehospital pacing versus
conventional treatment:‘PrePACE.’Resuscitation 2008;76:341–349.
S6.3.3-16.Cummins RO, Graves JR, Larsen MP, et al. Out-of-hospital transcuta-
neous pacing by emergency medical technicians in patients with asystolic
cardiac arrest. N Engl J Med 1993;328:1377–1382.
S6.3.3-17.Barthell E, Troiano P, Olson D, et al. Prehospital external cardiac pacing: a
prospective, controlled clinical trial. Ann Emerg Med 1988;17:1221–1226.
S6.3.3-18.Hedges JR, Feero S, Shultz B, et al. Prehospital transcutaneous cardiac
pacing for symptomatic bradycardia. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1991;
14:1473–1478.
S6.3.3-19.Sherbino J, Verbeek PR, MacDonald RD, et al. Prehospital transcutaneous
cardiac pacing for symptomatic bradycardia or bradyasystolic cardiac ar-
rest: a systematic review. Resuscitation 2006;70:193–200.
S6.3.3-20.Zoll PM, Zoll RH, Falk RH, et al. External noninvasive temporary cardiac
pacing: clinical trials. Circulation 1985;71:937–944.
S6.3.3-21.Hwang YM, Kim CM, Moon KW. Periprocedural temporary pacing in pri-
mary percutaneous coronary intervention for patients with acute inferior
myocardial infarction. Clin Interv Aging 2016;11:287–292.
S6.3.3-22.Bocka JJ. External transcutaneous pacemakers. Ann Emerg Med 1989;
18:1280–1286.
  • S6.3.3-23. Ferri LA, Farina A, Lenatti L, et al. Emergent transvenous cardiac pacing usingultrasound guidance: a prospective study versus thestandard fluoroscopyguided procedure. Eur Heart J Acute Cardiovasc Care 2016;5:125–129.

  • S6.3.3-24. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S6.3.3-25. Im SH, Han MH, Kim SH, et al. Transcutaneous temporary cardiac pacing in carotid stenting: noninvasive prevention of angioplasty-induced bradycardia and hypotension. J Endovasc Ther 2008;15:110–116.

6.4. Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.4-1. Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2016 ACC/AHA/HFSA focused update on new pharmacological therapy for heart failure: an update of the 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Failure Society of America. Circulation 2016;134:e282–e293.

  • S6.4-2. Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: a report of the American College of Cardiology

Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;62:e147–e239.

6.4.1. General Principles of Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.4.1-1. Dhingra RC, Denes P, Wu D, et al. The significance of second degree atrioventricular block and bundle branch block. Observations regarding site and type of block. Circulation 1974;49:638–646.

  • S6.4.1-2. Dhingra RC, Wyndham C, Bauernfeind R, et al. Significance of block distal to the His bundle induced by atrial pacing in patients with chronic bifascicular block. Circulation 1979;60:1455–1464.

  • S6.4.1-3. Strasberg B, Amat YLF, Dhingra RC, et al. Natural history of chronic second-degree atrioventricular nodal block. Circulation 1981; 63:1043–1049.

  • S6.4.1-4. Gadler F, Valzania C, Linde C. Current use of implantable electrical devices in Sweden: data from the Swedish pacemaker and implantable cardioverterdefibrillator registry. Europace 2015;17:69–77.

  • S6.4.1-5. Armaganijan LV, Toff WD, Nielsen JC, et al. Are elderly patients at increased risk of complications following pacemaker implantation? A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012; 35:131–134.

  • S6.4.1-6. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S6.4.1-7. Lee JZ, Ling J, Diehl NN, et al. Mortality and cerebrovascular events after heart rhythm disorder management procedures. Circulation 2018; 137:24–33.

  • S6.4.1-8. Barold SS. Indications for permanent cardiac pacing in first-degree AV block: class I, II, or III? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1996;19:747–751.

  • S6.4.1-9. Kim YH, O’Nunain S, Trouton T, et al. Pseudo-pacemaker syndrome following inadvertent fast pathway ablation for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 1993;4:178–182.

  • S6.4.1-10. Barold SS, Ilercil A, Leonelli F, et al. First-degree atrioventricular block. Clinical manifestations, indications for pacing, pacemaker management & consequences during cardiac resynchronization. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2006;17:139–152.

  • S6.4.1-11. Alboni P, Holz A, Brignole M. Vagally mediated atrioventricular block: pathophysiology and diagnosis. Heart 2013;99:904–908.

  • 6.4.2. Transient/Potentially Reversible Causes of Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.4.2-1. Panic G, Stanulovic V, Popov T. Atrio-ventricular block as the first presentation of disseminated Lyme disease. Int J Cardiol 2011;150:e104–e106.

  • S6.4.2-2. Zipes DP. Second-degree atrioventricular block. Circulation 1979; 60:465–472.

  • S6.4.2-3. Robinson ML, Kobayashi T, Higgins Y, et al. Lyme carditis. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2015;29:255–268.

  • S6.4.2-4. Carano N, Bo I, Tchana B, et al. Adams-Stokes attack as the first symptom of acute rheumatic fever: report of an adolescent case and review of the literature. Ital J Pediatr 2012;38:61.

  • S6.4.2-5. Guerrero-Marquez FJ, Arana-Rueda E, Pedrote A. Idiopathic paroxysmal atrio-ventricular block. What is the mechanism? J Atr Fibrillation 2016; 9:1449.

  • S6.4.2-6. Gadler F, Valzania C, Linde C. Current use of implantable electrical devices in Sweden: data from the Swedish pacemaker and implantable cardioverterdefibrillator registry. Europace 2015;17:69–77.

  • S6.4.2-7. Armaganijan LV, Toff WD, Nielsen JC, et al. Are elderly patients at increased risk of complications following pacemaker implantation? A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012; 35:131–134.

  • S6.4.2-8. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S6.4.2-9. Lee JZ, Ling J, Diehl NN, et al. Mortality and cerebrovascular events after heart rhythm disorder management procedures. Circulation 2018; 137:24–33.

  • S6.4.2-10. Alboni P, Holz A, Brignole M. Vagally mediated atrioventricular block: pathophysiology and diagnosis. Heart 2013;99:904–908.

  • S6.4.2-11. Kostic T, Momcilovic S, Perisic ZD, et al. Manifestations of Lyme carditis. Int J Cardiol 2017;232:24–32.

  • S6.4.2-12. Farre N, Bazan V, Garcia-Garcia C, et al. Long-term outcome of transitory “reversible” complete atrio-ventricular block unrelated to myocardial ischemia. Int J Cardiol 2014;172:503–505.

  • S6.4.2-13. Zeltser D, Justo D, Halkin A, et al. Drug-induced atrioventricular block: prognosis after discontinuation of the culprit drug. J Am Coll Cardiol 2004;44:105–108.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e212

  • S6.4.2-14. Mosqueda-Garcia R, Furlan R, Tank J, et al. The elusive pathophysiology of neurally mediated syncope. Circulation 2000;102:2898–2906.

  • S6.4.2-15. Kusumoto FM, Goldschlager N. Device therapy for cardiac arrhythmias. JAMA 2002;287:1848–1852.

  • S6.4.2-16. Massie B, Scheinman MM, Peters R, et al. Clinical and electrophysiologic findings in patients with paroxysmal slowing of the sinus rate and apparent Mobitz type II atrioventricular block. Circulation 1978;58:305–314.

  • S6.4.2-17. Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017;70:e39–e110.

6.4.3. Additional Testing for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.4.3-1. Giada F, Gulizia M, Francese M, et al. Recurrent unexplained palpitations (RUP) study comparison of implantable loop recorder versus conventional diagnostic strategy. J Am Coll Cardiol 2007;49:1951–1956.

  • S6.4.3-2. Kinlay S, Leitch JW, Neil A, et al. Cardiac event recorders yield more diagnosesandaremorecost-effectivethan48-hourHoltermonitoringinpatientswith palpitations. A controlled clinical trial. Ann Intern Med 1996;124:16–20.

  • S6.4.3-3. Podoleanu C, DaCosta A, Defaye P, et al. Early use of an implantable loop recorder in syncope evaluation: a randomized study in the context of the French healthcare system (FRESH study). Arch Cardiovasc Dis 2014; 107:546–552.

  • S6.4.3-4. Sivakumaran S, Krahn AD, Klein GJ, et al. A prospective randomized comparison of loop recorders versus Holter monitors in patients with syncope or presyncope. Am J Med 2003;115:1–5.

  • S6.4.3-5. Bakst A, Goldberg B, Schamroth L. Significance of exercise-induced second degree atrioventricular block. Br Heart J 1975;37:984–986.

  • S6.4.3-6. Shetty RK, Agarwal S, Ganiga Sanjeeva NC, et al. Trifascicular block progressing to complete AV block on exercise: a rare presentation demonstrating the usefulness of exercise testing. BMJ Case Rep 2015; 2015:bcr2014209180.

  • S6.4.3-7. Fisher JD. Role of electrophysiologic testing in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with known and suspected bradycardias and tachycardias. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 1981;24:25–90.

  • S6.4.3-8. Katritsis DG, Josephson ME. Electrophysiological testing for the investigation of bradycardias. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2017;6:24–28.

  • S6.4.3-9. Zipes DP. Second-degree atrioventricular block. Circulation 1979; 60:465–472.

  • S6.4.3-10. Mangiardi LM, Bonamini R, Conte M, et al. Bedside evaluation of atrioventricular block with narrow QRS complexes: usefulness of carotid sinus massage and atropine administration. Am J Cardiol 1982;49:1136–1145.

  • S6.4.3-11. Twidale N, Heddle WF, Tonkin AM. Procainamide administration during electrophysiology study–utility as a provocative test for intermittent atrioventricular block. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1988;11:1388–1397.

  • S6.4.3-12. Brembilla-Perrot B, Muhanna I, Nippert M, et al. Paradoxical effect of isoprenaline infusion. Europace 2005;7:621–627.

  • S6.4.3-13. Solano A, Menozzi C, Maggi R, et al. Incidence, diagnostic yield and safety of the implantable loop-recorder to detect the mechanism of syncope in patients with and without structural heart disease. Eur Heart J 2004;25:1116–1119.

  • S6.4.3-14. Barold SS. Lingering misconceptions about type I second-degree atrioventricular block. Am J Cardiol 2001;88:1018–1020.

  • S6.4.3-15. Toeda T, Suetake S, Tsuchida K, et al. Exercise induced atrioventricular block with gap phenomenon in atrioventricular conduction. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2000;23:527–529.

  • S6.4.3-16. Chokshi SK, Sarmiento J, Nazari J, et al. Exercise-provoked distal atrioventricular block. Am J Cardiol 1990;66:114–116.

  • S6.4.3-17. Bogossian H, Frommeyer G, Gobbert K, et al. Is there a prognostic relevance of electrophysiological studies in bundle branch block patients? Clin Cardiol 2017;40:575–579.

  • S6.4.3-18. Toda I, Kawahara T, Murakawa Y, et al. Electrophysiological study of young patients with exercise related paroxysms of palpitation: role of atropine and isoprenaline for initiation of supraventricular tachycardia. Br Heart J 1989;61:268–273.

  • S6.4.3-19. Helmy I, Scheinman MM, Herre JM, et al. Electrophysiologic effects of isoproterenol in patients with atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia treated with flecainide. J Am Coll Cardiol 1990;16:1649–1655.

6.4.4. Permanent Pacing

  • S6.4.4-1. Dhingra RC, Denes P, Wu D, et al. The significance of second degree atrioventricular block and bundle branch block. Observations regarding site and type of block. Circulation 1974;49:638–646.

  • S6.4.4-2. Ector H, Rolies L, De Geest H. Dynamic electrocardiography and ventricular pauses of 3 seconds and more: etiology and therapeutic implications. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1983;6:548–551.

S6.4.4-3. Edhag O, Swahn A. Prognosis of patients with complete heart block or arrhythmic syncope who were not treated with artificial pacemakers. A long-term follow-up study of 101 patients. Acta Med Scand 1976; 200:457–463. S6.4.4-4. Shaw DB, Eraut D. Prevalence and morbidity of heart block in Devon. Br Med J 1970;1:144–147.

  • S6.4.4-5. Shaw DB, Kekwick CA, Veale D, et al. Survival in second degree atrioventricular block. Br Heart J 1985;53:587–593.

  • S6.4.4-6. Simon AB, Zloto AE. Atrioventricular block: natural history after permanent ventricular pacing. Am J Cardiol 1978;41:500–507.

S6.4.4-7. Strasberg B, Amat YLF, Dhingra RC, et al. Natural history of chronic second-degree atrioventricular nodal block. Circulation 1981; 63:1043–1049. S6.4.4-8. Bhakta D, Shen C, Kron J, et al. Pacemaker and implantable cardioverterdefibrillator use in a US myotonic dystrophy type 1 population. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2011;22:1369–1375.

  • S6.4.4-9. Facenda-Lorenzo M, Hernandez-Afonso J, Rodriguez-Esteban M, et al. Cardiac manifestations in myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients followed using a standard protocol in a specialized unit. Rev Esp Cardiol (Engl Ed) 2013;66:193–197.

  • S6.4.4-10. Groh WJ. Arrhythmias in the muscular dystrophies. Heart Rhythm 2012; 9:1890–1895.

  • S6.4.4-11. Groh WJ, Groh MR, Saha C, et al. Electrocardiographic abnormalities and sudden death in myotonic dystrophy type 1. N Engl J Med 2008; 358:2688–2697.

  • S6.4.4-12. Ha AH, Tarnopolsky MA, Bergstra TG, et al. Predictors of atrioventricular conduction disease, long-term outcomes in patients with myotonic dystrophy types I and II. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012; 35:1262–1269.

  • S6.4.4-13. Kabunga P, Lau AK, Phan K, et al. Systematic review of cardiac electrical disease in Kearns-Sayre syndrome and mitochondrial cytopathy. Int J Cardiol 2015;181:303–310.

  • S6.4.4-14. Lazarus A, Varin J, Babuty D, et al. Long-term follow-up of arrhythmias in patients with myotonic dystrophy treated by pacing: a multicenter diagnostic pacemaker study. J Am Coll Cardiol 2002;40:1645–1652.

  • S6.4.4-15. Wahbi K, Meune C, Porcher R, et al. Electrophysiological study with prophylactic pacing and survival in adults with myotonic dystrophy and conduction system disease. JAMA 2012;307:1292–1301.

  • S6.4.4-16. Hilgard J, Ezri MD, Denes P. Significance of ventricular pauses of three seconds or more detected on twenty-four-hour Holter recordings. Am J Cardiol 1985;55:1005–1008.

  • S6.4.4-17. Saxon LA, Albert BH, Uretz EF, et al. Permanent pacemaker placement in chronic atrial fibrillation associated with intermittent AV block and cerebral symptoms. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1990;13:724–729.

  • S6.4.4-18. O’Gara PT, Kushner FG, Ascheim DD, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;61:e78–e140.

  • S6.4.4-19. Amsterdam EA, Wenger NK, Brindis RG, et al. 2014 AHA/ACC guideline for the management of patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:e139–e228.

  • S6.4.4-20. Rationale, design and organization of the Second Chinese Cardiac Study (CCS-2): a randomized trial of clopidogrel plus aspirin, and of metoprolol, among patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction. Second Chinese Cardiac Study (CCS-2) Collaborative Group. J Cardiovasc Risk 2000;7:435–441.

  • S6.4.4-21. Packer M, Coats AJ, Fowler MB, et al. Effect of carvedilol on survival in severe chronic heart failure. N Engl J Med 2001;344:1651–1658.

  • S6.4.4-22. Dargie HJ. Design and methodology of the CAPRICORN trial - a randomised double blind placebo controlled study of the impact of carvedilol on morbidity and mortality in patients with left ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction. Eur J Heart Fail 2000;2:325–332.

  • S6.4.4-23. Sweeney MO, Hellkamp AS, Ellenbogen KA, et al. Adverse effect of ventricular pacing on heart failure and atrial fibrillation among patients with normal baseline QRS duration in a clinical trial of pacemaker therapy for sinus node dysfunction. Circulation 2003;107:2932–2937.

  • S6.4.4-24. Kiehl EL, Makki T, Kumar R, et al. Incidence and predictors of right ventricular pacing-induced cardiomyopathy in patients with complete atrioventricular block and preserved left ventricular systolic function. Heart Rhythm 2016;13:2272–2278.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e213

S6.4.4-25. Kato Y, Morimoto S, Uemura A, et al. Efficacy of corticosteroids in sarcoidosis presenting with atrioventricular block. Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis 2003;20:133–137.

  • S6.4.4-26. Reisinger J, Dubrey SW, Lavalley M, et al. Electrophysiologic abnormalities in AL (primary) amyloidosis with cardiac involvement. J Am Coll Cardiol 1997;30:1046–1051.

  • S6.4.4-27. Sadek MM, Yung D, Birnie DH, et al. Corticosteroid therapy for cardiac sarcoidosis: a systematic review. Can J Cardiol 2013;29:1034–1041.

  • S6.4.4-28. Sayed RH, Rogers D, Khan F, et al. A study of implanted cardiac rhythm recorders in advanced cardiac AL amyloidosis. Eur Heart J 2015; 36:1098–1105.

  • S6.4.4-29. Takaya Y, Kusano KF, Nakamura K, et al. Outcomes in patients with highdegree atrioventricular block as the initial manifestation of cardiac sarcoidosis. Am J Cardiol 2015;115:505–509.

  • S6.4.4-30. Zhou Y, Lower EE, Li HP, et al. Cardiac sarcoidosis: the impact of age and implanted devices on survival. Chest 2017;151:139–148.

  • S6.4.4-31. Arbustini E, Pilotto A, Repetto A, et al. Autosomal dominant dilated cardiomyopathy with atrioventricular block: a lamin A/C defect-related disease. J Am Coll Cardiol 2002;39:981–990.

  • S6.4.4-32. Anselme F, Moubarak G, Savoure A, et al. Implantable cardioverterdefibrillators in lamin A/C mutation carriers with cardiac conduction disorders. Heart Rhythm 2013;10:1492–1498.

  • S6.4.4-33. Hasselberg NE, Edvardsen T, Petri H, et al. Risk prediction of ventricular arrhythmias and myocardial function in Lamin A/C mutation positive subjects. Europace 2014;16:563–571.

  • S6.4.4-34. Barold SS. Indications for permanent cardiac pacing in first-degree AV block: class I, II, or III? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1996;19:747–751.

  • S6.4.4-35. Birkhahn RH, Gaeta TJ, Tloczkowski J, et al. Emergency medicinetrained physicians are proficient in the insertion of transvenous pacemakers. Ann Emerg Med 2004;43:469–474.

  • S6.4.4-36. Ferguson JD, Banning AP, Bashir Y. Randomised trial of temporary cardiac pacing with semirigid and balloon-flotation electrode catheters. Lancet 1997;349:1883.

  • S6.4.4-37. Kim YH, O’Nunain S, Trouton T, et al. Pseudo-pacemaker syndrome following inadvertent fast pathway ablation for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 1993;4:178–182.

  • S6.4.4-38. Padala SK, Peaslee S, Sidhu MS, et al. Impact of early initiation of corticosteroid therapy on cardiac function and rhythm in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis. Int J Cardiol 2017;227:565–570.

  • S6.4.4-39. Birnie DH, Sauer WH, Bogun F, et al. HRS expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and management of arrhythmias associated with cardiac sarcoidosis. Heart Rhythm 2014;11:1305–1323.

  • S6.4.4-40. Marsman RF, Bardai A, Postma AV, et al. A complex double deletion in LMNA underlies progressive cardiac conduction disease, atrial arrhythmias, and sudden death. Circ Cardiovasc Genet 2011;4:280–287.

  • S6.4.4-41. Kumar S, Baldinger SH, Gandjbakhch E, et al. Long-term arrhythmic and nonarrhythmic outcomes of lamin A/C mutation carriers. J Am Coll Cardiol 2016;68:2299–2307.

  • S6.4.4-42. Kumar S, Androulakis AF, Sellal JM, et al. Multicenter experience with catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia in lamin A/C cardiomyopathy. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2016;9:e004357.

  • S6.4.4-43. Otomo J, Kure S, Shiba T, et al. Electrophysiological and histopathological characteristics of progressive atrioventricular block accompanied by familial dilated cardiomyopathy caused by a novel mutation of lamin A/ C gene. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2005;16:137–145.

  • S6.4.4-44. Taylor MR, Fain PR, Sinagra G, et al. Natural history of dilated cardiomyopathy due to lamin A/C gene mutations. J Am Coll Cardiol 2003; 41:771–780.

  • S6.4.4-45. Parks SB, Kushner JD, Nauman D, et al. Lamin A/C mutation analysis in a cohort of 324 unrelated patients with idiopathic or familial dilated cardiomyopathy. Am Heart J 2008;156:161–169.

  • S6.4.4-46. Priori SG, Wilde AA, Horie M, et al. HRS/EHRA/APHRS expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and management of patients with inherited primary arrhythmia syndromes. Heart Rhythm 2013; 10:1932–1963.

  • S6.4.4-47. Pan H, Richards AA, Zhu X, et al. A novel mutation in LAMIN A/C is associated with isolated early-onset atrial fibrillation and progressive atrioventricular block followed by cardiomyopathy and sudden cardiac death. Heart Rhythm 2009;6:707–710.

  • S6.4.4-48. van Rijsingen IA, Arbustini E, Elliott PM, et al. Risk factors for malignant ventricular arrhythmias in lamin a/c mutation carriers a European cohort study. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012;59:493–500.

  • S6.4.4-49. van Rijsingen IA, Nannenberg EA, Arbustini E, et al. Gender-specific differences in major cardiac events and mortality in lamin A/C mutation carriers. Eur J Heart Fail 2013;15:376–384.

  • S6.4.4-50. Ando G, Versaci F. Ventriculo-atrial gradient due to first degree atrioventricular block: a case report. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2005;5:23.

  • S6.4.4-51. Lader JM, Park D, Aizer A, et al. Slow pathway modification for treatment of pseudo-pacemaker syndrome due to first-degree atrioventricular block with dual atrioventricular nodal physiology. HeartRhythm Case Rep 2018;4:98–101.

  • S6.4.4-52. Carroz P, Delay D, Girod G. Pseudo-pacemaker syndrome in a young woman with first-degree atrio-ventricular block. Europace 2010; 12:594–596.

  • S6.4.4-53. Buckley AE, Dean J, Mahy IR. Cardiac involvement in Emery Dreifuss muscular dystrophy: a case series. Heart 1999;82:105–108.

  • S6.4.4-54. Finsterer J, Stollberger C. Heart disease in disorders of muscle, neuromuscular transmission, and the nerves. Korean Circ J 2016;46:117–134.

  • S6.4.4-55. Kitaguchi T, Matsubara S, Sato M, et al. A missense mutation in the exon 8 of lamin A/C gene in a Japanese case of autosomal dominant limbgirdle muscular dystrophy and cardiac conduction block. Neuromuscul Disord 2001;11:542–546.

6.4.4.1. Permanent Pacing Techniques and Methods for Chronic Therapy/Management of Bradycardia Attributable to Atrioventricular Block

  • S6.4.4.1-1. Lamas GA, Orav EJ, Stambler BS, et al. Quality of life and clinical outcomes in elderly patients treated with ventricular pacing as compared with dual-chamber pacing. Pacemaker Selection in the Elderly Investigators. N Engl J Med 1998;338:1097–1104.

  • S6.4.4.1-2. Lamas GA, Lee KL, Sweeney MO, et al. Ventricular pacing or dualchamber pacing for sinus-node dysfunction. N Engl J Med 2002; 346:1854–1862.

  • S6.4.4.1-3. Connolly SJ, Kerr CR, Gent M, et al. Effects of physiologic pacing versus ventricular pacing on the risk of stroke and death due to cardiovascular causes. Canadian Trial of Physiologic Pacing Investigators. N Engl J Med 2000;342:1385–1391.

  • S6.4.4.1-4. Kerr CR, Connolly SJ, Abdollah H, et al. Canadian Trial of Physiological Pacing: effects of physiological pacing during long-term follow-up. Circulation 2004;109:357–362.

  • S6.4.4.1-5. Dretzke J, Toff WD, Lip GY, et al. Dual chamber versus single chamber ventricular pacemakers for sick sinus syndrome and atrioventricular block. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004;CD003710.

  • S6.4.4.1-6. Sweeney MO, Hellkamp AS, Ellenbogen KA, et al. Adverse effect of ventricular pacing on heart failure and atrial fibrillation among patients with normal baseline QRS duration in a clinical trial of pacemaker therapy for sinus node dysfunction. Circulation 2003;107:2932–2937.

  • S6.4.4.1-7. Wilkoff BL, Cook JR, Epstein AE, et al. Dual-chamber pacing or ventricular backup pacing in patients with an implantable defibrillator: the Dual Chamber and VVI Implantable Defibrillator (DAVID) Trial. JAMA 2002;288:3115–3123.

  • S6.4.4.1-8. Toff WD, Camm AJ, Skehan JD. Single-chamber versus dual-chamber pacing for high-grade atrioventricular block. N Engl J Med 2005; 353:145–155.

  • S6.4.4.1-9. Link MS, Hellkamp AS, Estes NA 3rd, et al. High incidence of pacemaker syndrome in patients with sinus node dysfunction treated with ventricular-based pacing in the Mode Selection Trial (MOST). J Am Coll Cardiol 2004;43:2066–2071.

  • S6.4.4.1-10. Ellenbogen KA, Stambler BS, Orav EJ, et al. Clinical characteristics of patients intolerant to VVIR pacing. Am J Cardiol 2000;86:59–63.

  • S6.4.4.1-11. Kindermann M, Hennen B, Jung J, et al. Biventricular versus conventional right ventricular stimulation for patients with standard pacing indication and left ventricular dysfunction: the Homburg Biventricular Pacing Evaluation (HOBIPACE). J Am Coll Cardiol 2006; 47:1927–1937.

  • S6.4.4.1-12. Vatankulu MA, Goktekin O, Kaya MG, et al. Effect of long-term resynchronization therapy on left ventricular remodeling in pacemaker patients upgraded to biventricular devices. Am J Cardiol 2009; 103:1280–1284.

  • S6.4.4.1-13. Gierula J, Cubbon RM, Jamil HA, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy in pacemaker-dependent patients with left ventricular dysfunction. Europace 2013;15:1609–1614.

  • S6.4.4.1-14. Brignole M, Botto G, Mont L, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients undergoing atrioventricular junction ablation for permanent atrial fibrillation: a randomized trial. Eur Heart J 2011;32:2420–2429.

  • S6.4.4.1-15. Yu CM, Chan JY, Zhang Q, et al. Biventricular pacing in patients with bradycardia and normal ejection fraction. N Engl J Med 2009; 361:2123–2134.

  • S6.4.4.1-16. Albertsen AE, Mortensen PT, Jensen HK, et al. Adverse effect of right ventricular pacing prevented by biventricular pacing during long-term

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e214

  • follow-up: a randomized comparison. Eur J Echocardiogr 2011; 12:767–772.

  • S6.4.4.1-17. Brignole M, Botto GL, Mont L, et al. Predictors of clinical efficacy of ‘ablate and pace’ therapy in patients with permanent atrial fibrillation. Heart 2012;98:297–302.

  • S6.4.4.1-18. Curtis AB, Worley SJ, Adamson PB, et al. Biventricular pacing for atrioventricular block and systolic dysfunction. N Engl J Med 2013; 368:1585–1593.

  • S6.4.4.1-19. Slotwiner DJ, Raitt MH, Del-Carpio Munoz F, et al. Impact of physiologic versus right ventricular pacing among patients with left ventricular ejection fraction greater than 35%: a systematic review for the 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline on the evaluation and management of patients with bradycardia and cardiac conduction delay: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidleines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018. In press.

  • S6.4.4.1-20. Brignole M, Gammage M, Puggioni E, et al. Comparative assessment of right, left, and biventricular pacing in patients with permanent atrial fibrillation. Eur Heart J 2005;26:712–722.

  • S6.4.4.1-21. Stockburger M, Gomez-Doblas JJ, Lamas G, et al. Preventing ventricular dysfunction in pacemaker patients without advanced heart failure: results from a multicentre international randomized trial (PREVENT-HF). Eur J Heart Fail 2011;13:633–641.

  • S6.4.4.1-22. Kronborg MB, Mortensen PT, Poulsen SH, et al. His or para-His pacing preserves left ventricular function in atrioventricular block: a doubleblind, randomized, crossover study. Europace 2014;16:1189–1196.

  • S6.4.4.1-23. Lustgarten DL, Crespo EM, Arkhipova-Jenkins I, et al. His-bundle pacing versus biventricular pacingincardiac resynchronization therapy patients: a crossover design comparison. Heart Rhythm 2015;12:1548–1557.

  • S6.4.4.1-24. Sharma PS, Dandamudi G, Naperkowski A, et al. Permanent His-bundle pacing is feasible, safe, and superior to right ventricular pacing in routine clinical practice. Heart Rhythm 2015;12:305–312.

  • S6.4.4.1-25. Occhetta E, Bortnik M, Magnani A, et al. Prevention of ventricular desynchronization by permanent para-Hisian pacing after atrioventricular node ablation in chronic atrial fibrillation: a crossover, blinded, randomized study versus apical right ventricular pacing. J Am Coll Cardiol 2006;47:1938–1945.

  • S6.4.4.1-26. Ellenbogen KA, Hellkamp AS, Wilkoff BL, et al. Complications arising after implantation of DDD pacemakers: the MOST experience. Am J Cardiol 2003;92:740–741.

  • S6.4.4.1-27. Udo EO, Zuithoff NP, van Hemel NM, et al. Incidence and predictors of short- and long-term complications in pacemaker therapy: the FOLLOWPACE study. Heart Rhythm 2012;9:728–735.

  • S6.4.4.1-28. Gillis AM, Russo AM, Ellenbogen KA, et al. HRS/ACCF expert consensus statement on pacemaker device and mode selection. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012;60:682–703.

  • S6.4.4.1-29. Dhingra RC, Denes P, Wu D, et al. The significance of second degree atrioventricular block and bundle branch block. Observations regarding site and type of block. Circulation 1974;49:638–646.

  • S6.4.4.1-30. Shaw DB, Eraut D. Prevalence and morbidity of heart block in Devon. Br Med J 1970;1:144–147.

  • S6.4.4.1-31. Shaw DB, Kekwick CA, Veale D, et al. Survival in second degree atrioventricular block. Br Heart J 1985;53:587–593.

  • S6.4.4.1-32. Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;62:e147–e239.

  • S6.4.4.1-33. Toff WD, Skehan JD, De Bono DP, et al. The United Kingdom pacing and cardiovascular events (UKPACE) trial. United Kingdom Pacing and Cardiovascular Events. Heart 1997;78:221–223.

  • S6.4.4.1-34. Kiehl EL, Makki T, Kumar R, et al. Incidence and predictors of right ventricular pacing-induced cardiomyopathy in patients with complete atrioventricular block and preserved left ventricular systolic function. Heart Rhythm 2016;13:2272–2278.

  • S6.4.4.1-35. Thackray SD, Witte KK, Nikitin NP, et al. The prevalence of heart failure and asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction in a typical regional pacemaker population. Eur Heart J 2003;24:1143–1152.

  • S6.4.4.1-36. Albertsen AE, Nielsen JC, Poulsen SH, et al. Biventricular pacing preserves left ventricular performance in patients with high-grade atrio-ventricular block: a randomized comparison with DDD(R) pacing in 50 consecutive patients. Europace 2008;10:314–320.

  • S6.4.4.1-37. Khurshid S, Epstein AE, Verdino RJ, et al. Incidence and predictors of right ventricular pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. Heart Rhythm 2014; 11:1619–1625.

  • S6.4.4.1-38. Sharma AD, Rizo-Patron C, Hallstrom AP, et al. Percent right ventricular pacing predicts outcomes in the DAVID trial. Heart Rhythm 2005; 2:830–834.

  • S6.4.4.1-39. Orlov MV, Gardin JM, Slawsky M, et al. Biventricular pacing improves cardiac function and prevents further left atrial remodeling in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation after atrioventricular node ablation. Am Heart J 2010;159:264–270.

  • S6.4.4.1-40. Doshi RN, Daoud EG, Fellows C, et al. Left ventricular-based cardiac stimulation post AV nodal ablation evaluation (the PAVE study). J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2005;16:1160–1165.

  • S6.4.4.1-41. St John Sutton M, Plappert T, Adamson PB, et al. Left ventricular reverse remodeling with biventricular versus right ventricular pacing in patients with atrioventricular block and heart failure in the BLOCK HF trial. Circ Heart Fail 2015;8:510–518.

  • S6.4.4.1-42. Abdelrahman M, Subzposh FA, Beer D, et al. Clinical outcomes of His bundle pacing compared to right ventricular pacing. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;71:2319–2330.

  • S6.4.4.1-43. Vijayaraman P, Subzposh FA, Naperkowski A. Atrioventricular node ablation and His bundle pacing. Europace 2017;19:iv10–iv16.

  • S6.4.4.1-44. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017; 14:e503–e551.

7. Conduction Disorders (With 1:1 Atrioventricular Conduction)

7.4. Evaluation of Conduction Disorders

S7.4-1. Fahy GJ, Pinski SL, Miller DP, et al. Natural history of isolated bundle branch block. Am J Cardiol 1996;77:1185–1190.

  • S7.4-2. Schneider JF, Thomas HE Jr, Kreger BE, et al. Newly acquired left bundlebranch block: the Framingham study. Ann Intern Med 1979;90:303–310.

  • S7.4-3. Talreja D, Gruver C, Sklenar J, et al. Efficient utilization of echocardiography for the assessment of left ventricular systolic function. Am Heart J 2000; 139:394–398.

  • S7.4-4. Barrett PM, Komatireddy R, Haaser S, et al. Comparison of 24-hour Holter monitoring with 14-day novel adhesive patch electrocardiographic monitoring. Am J Med 2014;127:95.e11–e17.

  • S7.4-5. Brown AP, Dawkins KD, Davies JG. Detection of arrhythmias: use of a patient-activated ambulatory electrocardiogram device with a solid-state memory loop. Br Heart J 1987;58:251–253.

  • S7.4-6. Joshi AK, Kowey PR, Prystowsky EN, et al. First experience with a mobile cardiac outpatient telemetry (MCOT) system for the diagnosis and management of cardiac arrhythmia. Am J Cardiol 2005;95:878–881.

  • S7.4-7. Locati ET, Moya A, Oliveira M, et al. External prolonged electrocardiogram monitoring in unexplained syncope and palpitations: results of the SYNARRFlash study. Europace 2016;18:1265–1272.

  • S7.4-8. Reiffel JA, Schwarzberg R, Murry M. Comparison of autotriggered memory loop recorders versus standard loop recorders versus 24-hour Holter monitors for arrhythmia detection. Am J Cardiol 2005;95:1055–1059.

  • S7.4-9. Rothman SA, Laughlin JC, Seltzer J, et al. The diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias: a prospective multi-center randomized study comparing mobile cardiac outpatient telemetry versus standard loop event monitoring. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2007;18:241–247.

  • S7.4-10. Sivakumaran S, Krahn AD, Klein GJ, et al. A prospective randomized comparison of loop recorders versus Holter monitors in patients with syncope or presyncope. Am J Med 2003;115:1–5.

  • S7.4-11. Turakhia MP, Hoang DD, Zimetbaum P, et al. Diagnostic utility of a novel leadless arrhythmia monitoring device. Am J Cardiol 2013;112:520–524.

  • S7.4-12. Chiu DT, Shapiro NI, Sun BC, et al. Are echocardiography, telemetry, ambulatory electrocardiography monitoring, and cardiac enzymes in emergency department patients presenting with syncope useful tests? A preliminary investigation. J Emerg Med 2014;47:113–118.

  • S7.4-13. Douglas PS, Garcia MJ, Haines DE, et al. ACCF/ASE/AHA/ASNC/HFSA/ HRS/SCAI/SCCM/SCCT/SCMR 2011 appropriate use criteria for echocardiography: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation Appropriate Use Criteria Task Force, American Society of Echocardiography, American Heart Association, American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, Heart Failure Society of America, Heart Rhythm Society, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, Society of Critical Care Medicine, Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography, Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance American College of Chest Physicians. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2011;24:229–267.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e215

  • S7.4-14. McAnulty JH, Rahimtoola SH, Murphy E, et al. Natural history of "highrisk" bundle-branch block: final report of a prospective study. N Engl J Med 1982;307:137–143.

  • S7.4-15. Mahmod M, Karamitsos TD, Suttie JJ, et al. Prevalence of cardiomyopathy in asymptomatic patients with left bundle branch block referred for cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2012; 28:1133–1140.

  • S7.4-16. Eriksson P, Hansson PO, Eriksson H, et al. Bundle-branch block in a general male population: the study of men born 1913. Circulation 1998; 98:2494–2500.

  • S7.4-17. Aro AL, Anttonen O, Tikkanen JT, et al. Intraventricular conduction delay in a standard 12-lead electrocardiogram as a predictor of mortality in the general population. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2011;4:704–710.

  • S7.4-18. Tiosano S, Hod H, Oberman B, et al. A three-decade survival analysis of intraventricular conduction delay in adults without ischemic heart disease. Am J Med 2016;129:1219.e11–1219.e16.

  • S7.4-19. Steinberg JS, Varma N, Cygankiewicz I, et al. 2017 ISHNE-HRS expert consensus statement on ambulatory ECG and external cardiac monitoring/ telemetry. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e55–e96.

  • S7.4-20. Linzer M, Prystowsky EN, Divine GW, et al. Predicting the outcomes of electrophysiologic studies of patients with unexplained syncope: preliminary validation of a derived model. J Gen Intern Med 1991;6:113–120.

  • S7.4-21. Mavrogeni S, Sfikakis PP, Karabela G, et al. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in asymptomatic patients with connective tissue disease and recent onset left bundle branch block. Int J Cardiol 2014;171:82–87.

  • S7.4-22. Haataja P, Anttila I, Nikus K, et al. Prognostic implications of intraventricular conduction delays in a general population: the Health 2000 Survey. Ann Med 2015;47:74–80.

  • S7.4-23. Bharati S, Dhingra RC, Lev M, et al. Conduction system in a patient with Prinzmetal’s angina and transient atrioventricular block. Am J Cardiol 1977;39:120–125.

  • S7.4-24. Bobba P, Salerno JA, Casari A. Transient left posterior hemiblock. Report of four cases induced by exercise test. Circulation 1972;46:931–938.

  • S7.4-25. Boran KJ, Oliveros RA, Boucher CA, et al. Ischemia-associated intraventricular conduction disturbances during exercise testing as a predictor of proximal left anterior descending coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol 1983;51:1098–1102.

  • S7.4-26. Coplan NL, Morales MC, Romanello P, et al. Exercise-related atrioventricular block. Influence of myocardial ischemia. Chest 1991;100:1728–1730.

  • S7.4-27. Oliveros RA, Seaworth J, Weiland FL, et al. Intermittent left anterior hemiblock during treadmill exercise test. Correlation with coronary arteriogram. Chest 1977;72:492–494.

  • S7.4-28. Virtanen KS, Heikkila J, Kala R, et al. Chest pain and rate-dependent left bundle branch block in patients with normal coronary arteriograms. Chest 1982;81:326–331.

  • S7.4-29. Grady TA, Chiu AC, Snader CE, et al. Prognostic significance of exerciseinduced left bundle-branch block. JAMA 1998;279:153–156.

  • S7.4-30. Stein R, Nguyen P, Abella J, et al. Prevalence and prognostic significance of exercise-induced right bundle branch block. Am J Cardiol 2010; 105:677–680.

7.5. Management of Conduction Disorders (With 1:1 Atrioventricular Conduction)

  • S7.5-1. Scheinman MM, Peters RW, Suave MJ, et al. Value of the H-Q interval in patients with bundle branch block and the role of prophylactic permanent pacing. Am J Cardiol 1982;50:1316–1322.

  • S7.5-2. Morady F, Higgins J, Peters RW, et al. Electrophysiologic testing in bundle branch block and unexplained syncope. Am J Cardiol 1984;54:587–591.

  • S7.5-3. Kubis M, Svejda J. Indication of permanent pacing after acute myocardial infarction complicated by combined intraventricular block. Cor Vasa 1982; 24:295–301.

  • S7.5-4. Khambatta S, Nguyen DL, Beckman TJ, et al. Kearns-Sayre syndrome: a case series of 35 adults and children. Int J Gen Med 2014;7:325–332.

  • S7.5-5. Polak PE, Zijlstra F, Roelandt JR. Indications for pacemaker implantation in the Kearns-Sayre syndrome. Eur Heart J 1989;10:281–282.

  • S7.5-6. O’Mahony C, Coats C, Cardona M, et al. Incidence and predictors of antibradycardia pacing in patients with Anderson-Fabry disease. Europace 2011;13:1781–1788.

  • S7.5-7. Sene T, Lidove O, Sebbah J, et al. Cardiac device implantation in Fabry disease: a retrospective monocentric study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4996.

  • S7.5-8. Witt CM, Wu G, Yang D, et al. Outcomes with left bundle branch block and mildly to moderately reduced left ventricular function. JACC Heart Fail 2016; 4:897–903.

  • S7.5-9. Chung ES, Katra RP, Ghio S, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy may benefit patients with left ventricular ejection fraction.35%: a PROSPECT trial substudy. Eur J Heart Fail 2010;12:581–587.

  • S7.5-10. Peters RW, Scheinman MM, Modin C, et al. Prophylactic permanent pacemakers for patients with chronic bundle branch block. Am J Med 1979; 66:978–985.

  • S7.5-11. DePasquale NP, Bruno MS. Natural history of combined right bundle branch block and left anterior hemiblock (bilateral bundle branch block). Am J Med 1973;54:297–303.

  • S7.5-12. Gadler F, Valzania C, Linde C. Current use of implantable electrical devices in Sweden: data from the Swedish pacemaker and implantable cardioverterdefibrillator registry. Europace 2015;17:69–77.

  • S7.5-13. Armaganijan LV, Toff WD, Nielsen JC, et al. Are elderly patients at increased risk of complications following pacemaker implantation? A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012; 35:131–134.

  • S7.5-14. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S7.5-15. Lee JZ, Ling J, Diehl NN, et al. Mortality and cerebrovascular events after heart rhythm disorder management procedures. Circulation 2018; 137:24–33.

  • S7.5-16. Linzer M, Prystowsky EN, Divine GW, et al. Predicting the outcomes of electrophysiologic studies of patients with unexplained syncope: preliminary validation of a derived model. J Gen Intern Med 1991;6:113–120.

  • S7.5-17. Epstein AE, DiMarco JP, Ellenbogen KA, et al. ACC/AHA/HRS 2008 guidelines for device-based therapy of cardiac rhythm abnormalities: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines (Writing Committee to Revise the ACC/ AHA/NASPE 2002 Guideline Update for Implantation of Cardiac Pacemakers and Antiarrhythmia Devices). Developed in collaboration with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2008;51:e1–e62.

  • S7.5-18. Moon JC, Sheppard M, Reed E, et al. The histological basis of late gadolinium enhancement cardiovascular magnetic resonance in a patient with Anderson-Fabry disease. J Cardiovasc Magn Reson 2006;8:479–482.

  • S7.5-19. Shah JS, Hughes DA, Sachdev B, et al. Prevalence and clinical significance of cardiac arrhythmia in Anderson-Fabry disease. Am J Cardiol 2005; 96:842–846.

  • S7.5-20. Gold MR, Thebault C, Linde C, et al. Effect of QRS duration and morphology on cardiac resynchronization therapy outcomes in mild heart failure: results from the Resynchronization Reverses Remodeling in Systolic Left Ventricular Dysfunction (REVERSE) study. Circulation 2012; 126:822–829.

8. Special Populations

8.1. Perioperative Management

  • S8.1-1. Bougioukas I, Jebran AF, Grossmann M, et al. Is there a correlation between late re-exploration after cardiac surgery and removal of epicardial pacemaker wires? J Cardiothorac Surg 2017;12:3.

  • S8.1-2. Gordon RS, Ivanov J, Cohen G, et al. Permanent cardiac pacing after a cardiac operation: predicting the use of permanent pacemakers. Ann Thorac Surg 1998;66:1698–1704.

  • S8.1-3. Peretto G, Durante A, Limite LR, et al. Postoperative arrhythmias after cardiac surgery: incidence, risk factors, and therapeutic management. Cardiol Res Pract 2014;2014:615987.

  • S8.1-4. Wiggins NB, Chong DT, Houghtaling PL, et al. Incidence, indications, risk factors, and survival of patients undergoing cardiac implantable electronic device implantation after open heart surgery. Europace 2017;19:1335–1342.

8.1.1. Patients at Risk for Bradycardia During Noncardiac Surgery or Procedures

  • S8.1.1-1. Gauss A, Hubner C, Meierhenrich R, et al. Perioperative transcutaneous pacemaker in patients with chronic bifascicular block or left bundle branch block and additional first-degree atrioventricular block. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand 1999;43:731–736.

  • S8.1.1-2. Im SH, Han MH, Kim SH, et al. Transcutaneous temporary cardiac pacing in carotid stenting: noninvasive prevention of angioplasty-induced bradycardia and hypotension. J Endovasc Ther 2008;15:110–116.

  • S8.1.1-3. Marrocco-Trischitta MM, Mazzone P, Vitale R, et al. Temporary transvenous pacemaker implantation during carotid endarterectomy in patients with trifascicular block. Ann Vasc Surg 2016;34:206–211.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e216

  • S8.1.1-4. Morris D, Mulvihill D, Lew WY. Risk of developing complete heart block during bedside pulmonary artery catheterization in patients with left bundle-branch block. Arch Intern Med 1987;147:2005–2010.

  • S8.1.1-5. Unnikrishnan D, Idris N, Varshneya N. Complete heart block during central venous catheter placement in a patient with pre-existing left bundle branch block. Br J Anaesth 2003;91:747–749.

  • S8.1.1-6. Cheung CC, Martyn A, Campbell N, et al. Predictors of intraoperative hypotension and bradycardia. Am J Med 2015;128:532–538.

  • S8.1.1-7. Fritsch G, Flamm M, Hepner DL, et al. Abnormal pre-operative tests, pathologic findings of medical history, and their predictive value for perioperative complications. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand 2012;56:339–350.

  • S8.1.1-8. Pereira ID, Grando MM, Vianna PT, et al. Retrospective analysis of risk factors and predictors of intraoperative complications in neuraxial blocks at Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu-UNESP. Rev Bras Anestesiol 2011;61:568–581. 311-8.

  • S8.1.1-9. Bauer AM, Smith RB, Thorell WE. Implications of carotid sinus hypersensitivity following preoperative embolization of a carotid body tumor. An indication for prophylactic intraoperative cardiac pacing. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2014;140:459–463.

  • S8.1.1-10. Chowdhury T, Ahuja N, Schaller B. Severe bradycardia during neurosurgical procedure: depth of anesthesia matters and leads to a new surrogate model of the trigeminocardiac reflex: a case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2015;94:e2118.

  • S8.1.1-11. Lin JA, Borel CO, Wang WB, et al. Anesthetic management of an AAI pacemaker patient with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation during colorectal surgery. J Clin Anesth 2006;18:372–375.

  • S8.1.1-12. Vimala S, Arulvelan A. Sudden bradycardia and hypotension in neurosurgery: trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR) and more. J Neurosurg Anesthesiol 2016;28:175–176.

  • S8.1.1-13. Christensen RE, Reynolds PI, Bukowski BK, et al. Anaesthetic management and outcomes in patients with surgically corrected D-transposition of the great arteries undergoing non-cardiac surgery. Br J Anaesth 2010; 104:12–15.

  • S8.1.1-14. Yong J, Hibbert P, Runciman WB, et al. Bradycardia as an early warning sign for cardiac arrest during routine laparoscopic surgery. Int J Qual Health Care 2015;27:473–478.

  • S8.1.1-15. Okamoto A, Inoue S, Tanaka Y, et al. Application of prophylactic gel-pads for transcutaneous pacing in patients with complete right bundle-branch block with axis deviation when surgical procedures are performed: 10year experience from a single Japanese university hospital. J Anesth 2009;23:616–619.

  • S8.1.1-16. Lehmann MH, Cameron A, Kemp HG Jr. Increased risk of ventricular fibrillation associated with temporary pacemaker use during coronary arteriography. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1983;6:923–929.

  • S8.1.1-17. Gilchrist IC, Cameron A. Temporary pacemaker use during coronary arteriography. Am J Cardiol 1987;60:1051–1054.

8.1.2. Postoperative Bradycardia and Conduction Disorders After Cardiac Surgery

  • S8.1.2-1. Socie P, Nicot F, Baudinaud P, et al. Frequency of recovery from complete atrioventricular block after cardiac surgery. Am J Cardiol 2017; 120:1841–1846.

  • S8.1.2-2. Kiehl EL, Makki T, Matar RM, et al. Incidence and predictors of late atrioventricular conduction recovery among patients requiring permanent pacemaker for complete heart block after cardiac surgery. Heart Rhythm 2017; 14:1786–1792.

8.1.2.1. Coronary Artery Bypass

  • S8.1.2.1-1. Caspi Y, Safadi T, Ammar R, et al. The significance of bundle branch block in the immediate postoperative electrocardiograms of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1987; 93:442–446.

  • S8.1.2.1-2. Cook DJ, Bailon JM, Douglas TT, et al. Changing incidence, type, and natural history of conduction defects after coronary artery bypass grafting. Ann Thorac Surg 2005;80:1732–1737.

  • S8.1.2.1-3. Mackstaller LL, Alpert JS. Atrial fibrillation: a review of mechanism, etiology, and therapy. Clin Cardiol 1997;20:640–650.

  • S8.1.2.1-4. Ngaage DL, Schaff HV, Mullany CJ, et al. Does preoperative atrial fibrillation influence early and late outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting? J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2007;133:182–189.

  • S8.1.2.1-5. Puskas JD, Sharoni E, Williams WH, et al. Is routine use of temporary epicardial pacing wires necessary after either OPCAB or conventional CABG/CPB? Heart Surg Forum 2003;6:E103–E106.

  • S8.1.2.1-6. Satinsky JD, Collins JJ Jr, Dalen JE. Conduction defects after cardiac surgery. Circulation 1974;50(suppl 2):II170–174.

  • S8.1.2.1-7. Tuzcu EM, Emre A, Goormastic M, et al. Incidence and prognostic significance of intraventricular conduction abnormalities after coronary bypass surgery. J Am Coll Cardiol 1990;16:607–610.

  • S8.1.2.1-8. Yesil M, Bayata S, Arikan E, et al. Should we revascularize before implanting a pacemaker? Clin Cardiol 2008;31:498–501.

  • S8.1.2.1-9. Zeldis SM, Morganroth J, Horowitz LN, et al. Fascicular conduction distrubances after coronary bypass surgery. Am J Cardiol 1978; 41:860–864.

  • S8.1.2.1-10. Bethea BT, Salazar JD, Grega MA, et al. Determining the utility of temporary pacing wires after coronary artery bypass surgery. Ann Thorac Surg 2005;79:104–107.

  • S8.1.2.1-11. Bougioukas I, Jebran AF, Grossmann M, et al. Is there a correlation between late re-exploration after cardiac surgery and removal of epicardial pacemaker wires? J Cardiothorac Surg 2017;12:3.

  • S8.1.2.1-12. Slogoff S, Keats AS, Ott E. Preoperative propranolol therapy and aortocoronary bypass operation. JAMA 1978;240:1487–1490.

  • S8.1.2.1-13. Imren Y, Benson AA, Oktar GL, et al. Is use of temporary pacing wires following coronary bypass surgery really necessary? J Cardiovasc Surg (Torino) 2008;49:261–267.

  • S8.1.2.1-14. Garcia-Bengochea JB, Fernandez AL, Calvelo DS, et al. Temporary epicardial left ventricular and biventricular pacing improves cardiac output after cardiopulmonary bypass. J Cardiothorac Surg 2012;7:113.

  • S8.1.2.1-15. Russell SJ, Tan C, O’Keefe P, et al. Optimized temporary bi-ventricular pacing improves haemodynamic function after on-pump cardiac surgery in patients with severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a two-centre randomized control trial. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2012;42:e146–e151.

  • S8.1.2.1-16. Evonich RF, Stephens JC, Merhi W, et al. The role of temporary biventricular pacing in the cardiac surgical patient with severely reduced left ventricular systolic function. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2008; 136:915–921.

  • S8.1.2.1-17. Navia JL, Atik FA, Grimm RA, et al. Minimally invasive left ventricular epicardial lead placement: surgical techniques for heart failure resynchronization therapy. Ann Thorac Surg 2005;79:1536–1544. discussion -44.

  • S8.1.2.1-18. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S8.1.2.1-19. Indik JH, Gimbel JR, Abe H, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging and radiation exposure in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. Heart Rhythm 2017; 14:e97–e153.

  • S8.1.2.1-20. Padmanabhan D, Kella DK, Mehta R, et al. Safety of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with legacy pacemakers and defibrillators and abandoned leads. Heart Rhythm 2018;15:228–233.

8.1.2.2. Surgery for Atrial Fibrillation

  • S8.1.2.2-1. Gammie JS, Haddad M, Milford-Beland S, et al. Atrial fibrillation correction surgery: lessons from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Cardiac Database. Ann Thorac Surg 2008;85:909–914.

  • S8.1.2.2-2. Gillinov AM, Gelijns AC, Parides MK, et al. Surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation during mitral-valve surgery. N Engl J Med 2015; 372:1399–1409.

  • S8.1.2.2-3. Phan K, Xie A, La Meir M, et al. Surgical ablation for treatment of atrial fibrillation in cardiac surgery: a cumulative meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Heart 2014;100:722–730.

  • S8.1.2.2-4. Saint LL, Damiano RJ Jr, Cuculich PS, et al. Incremental risk of the Coxmaze IV procedure for patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing mitral valve surgery. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2013;146:1072–1077.

  • S8.1.2.2-5. Lee R, McCarthy PM, Wang EC, et al. Midterm survival in patients treated for atrial fibrillation: a propensity-matched comparison to patients without a history of atrial fibrillation. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2012; 143:1341–1351. discussion 50-1.

  • S8.1.2.2-6. Ad N, Suri RM, Gammie JS, et al. Surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation trends and outcomes in North America. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2012;144:1051–1060.

  • S8.1.2.2-7. Navia JL, Atik FA, Grimm RA, et al. Minimally invasive left ventricular epicardial lead placement: surgical techniques for heart failure resynchronization therapy. Ann Thorac Surg 2005;79:1536–1544. discussion-44.

  • S8.1.2.2-8. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S8.1.2.2-9. Indik JH, Gimbel JR, AbeH, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging and radiation exposure in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e97–e153.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e217

S8.1.2.2-10. Padmanabhan D, Kella DK, Mehta R, et al. Safety of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with legacy pacemakers and defibrillators and abandoned leads. Heart Rhythm 2018;15:228–233.

8.1.2.3. Valvular Surgery

  • S8.1.2.3-1. Goldman BS, Hill TJ, Weisel RD, et al. Permanent cardiac pacing after open-heart surgery: acquired heart disease. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1984;7:367–371.

  • S8.1.2.3-2. Elahi MM, Lee D, Dhannapuneni RR. Predictors of permanent pacemaker implantation during the early postoperative period after valve surgery. Tex Heart Inst J 2006;33:455–457.

  • S8.1.2.3-3. Koplan BA, Stevenson WG, Epstein LM, et al. Development and validation of a simple risk score to predict the need for permanent pacing after cardiac valve surgery. J Am Coll Cardiol 2003;41:795–801.

  • S8.1.2.3-4. Leyva F, Qiu T, McNulty D, et al. Long-term requirement for pacemaker implantation after cardiac valve replacement surgery. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:529–534.

8.1.2.3.1. Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement or Repair

  • S8.1.2.3.1-1. Bagur R, Manazzoni JM, Dumont E, et al. Permanent pacemaker im-[] plantation following isolated aortic valve replacement in a large cohort of elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis. Heart 2011; 97:1687–1694.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-2. Dawkins S, Hobson AR, Kalra PR, et al. Permanent pacemaker implantation after isolated aortic valve replacement: incidence, indications, and predictors. Ann Thorac Surg 2008;85:108–112.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-3. Limongelli G, Ducceschi V, D’Andrea A, et al. Risk factors for pacemaker implantation following aortic valve replacement: a single centre experience. Heart 2003;89:901–904.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-4. Baraki H, Al Ahmad A, Jeng-Singh S, et al. Pacemaker dependency after isolated aortic valve replacement: do conductance disorders recover over time? Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg 2013;16:476–481.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-5. Greason KL, Lahr BD, Stulak JM, et al. Long-term mortality effect of early pacemaker implantation after surgical aortic valve replacement. Ann Thorac Surg 2017;104:1259–1264.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-6. Schurr UP, Berli J, Berdajs D, et al. Incidence and risk factors for pacemaker implantation following aortic valve replacement. Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg 2010;11:556–560.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-7. Garcia-Bengochea JB, Fernandez AL, Calvelo DS, et al. Temporary epicardial left ventricular and biventricular pacing improves cardiac output after cardiopulmonary bypass. J Cardiothorac Surg 2012;7:113.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-8. Russell SJ, Tan C, O’Keefe P, et al. Optimized temporary biventricular pacing improves haemodynamic function after on-pump cardiac surgery in patients with severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a two-centre randomized control trial. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2012;42:e146–e151.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-9. Evonich RF, Stephens JC, Merhi W, et al. The role of temporary biventricular pacing in the cardiac surgical patient with severely reduced left ventricular systolic function. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2008; 136:915–921.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-10. Navia JL, Atik FA, Grimm RA, et al. Minimally invasive left ventricular epicardial lead placement: surgical techniques for heart failure resynchronization therapy. Ann Thorac Surg 2005;79:1536–1544. discussion -44.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-11. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-12. Indik JH, Gimbel JR, Abe H, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging and radiation exposure in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e97–e153.

  • S8.1.2.3.1-13. Padmanabhan D, Kella DK, Mehta R, et al. Safety of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with legacy pacemakers and defibrillators and abandoned leads. Heart Rhythm 2018;15:228–233.

8.1.2.3.2. Mitral Valve Surgery

  • S8.1.2.3.2-1. Berdajs D, Schurr UP, Wagner A, et al. Incidence and pathophysiology of atrioventricular block following mitral valve replacement and ring annuloplasty. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2008;34:55–61.

  • S8.1.2.3.2-2. Goldstein D, Moskowitz AJ, Gelijns AC, et al. Two-year outcomes of surgical treatment of severe ischemic mitral regurgitation. N Engl J Med 2016;374:344–353.

  • S8.1.2.3.2-3. Levin R, Leacche M, Petracek MR, et al. Extending the use of the pacing pulmonary artery catheter for safe minimally invasive cardiac surgery. J Cardiothor Vasc Anesthes 2010;24:568–573.

  • S8.1.2.3.2-4. Chikwe J, Itagaki S, Anyanwu A, et al. Impact of concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty on tricuspid regurgitation, right ventricular function, and

pulmonary artery hypertension after repair of mitral valve prolapse. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015;65:1931–1938. S8.1.2.3.2-5. Gillinov AM, Gelijns AC, Parides MK, et al. Surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation during mitral-valve surgery. N Engl J Med 2015; 372:1399–1409. S8.1.2.3.2-6. Garcia-Bengochea JB, Fernandez AL, Calvelo DS, et al. Temporary epicardial left ventricular and biventricular pacing improves cardiac output after cardiopulmonary bypass. J Cardiothorac Surg 2012; 7:113. S8.1.2.3.2-7. Russell SJ, Tan C, O’Keefe P, et al. Optimized temporary biventricular pacing improves haemodynamic function after on-pump cardiac surgery in patients with severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a two-centre randomized control trial. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2012;42:e146–e151. S8.1.2.3.2-8. Evonich RF, Stephens JC, Merhi W, et al. The role of temporary biventricular pacing in the cardiac surgical patient with severely reduced left ventricular systolic function. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2008; 136:915–921. S8.1.2.3.2-9. Navia JL, Atik FA, Grimm RA, et al. Minimally invasive left ventricular epicardial lead placement: surgical techniques for heart failure resynchronization therapy. Ann Thorac Surg 2005;79:1536–1544. discussion-44. S8.1.2.3.2-10. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551. S8.1.2.3.2-11. Indik JH, Gimbel JR, Abe H, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging and radiation exposure in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e97–e153. S8.1.2.3.2-12. Padmanabhan D, Kella DK, Mehta R, et al. Safety of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with legacy pacemakers and defibrillators and abandoned leads. Heart Rhythm 2018;15:228–233.

8.1.2.3.3. Tricuspid Valve Surgery

  • S8.1.2.3.3-1. Chikwe J, Itagaki S, Anyanwu A, et al. Impact of concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty on tricuspid regurgitation, right ventricular function, and pulmonary artery hypertension after repair of mitral valve prolapse. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015;65:1931–1938.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-2. Jokinen JJ, Turpeinen AK, Pitkanen O, et al. Pacemaker therapy after tricuspid valve operations: implications on mortality, morbidity, and quality of life. Ann Thorac Surg 2009;87:1806–1814.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-3. McCarthy PM, Bhudia SK, Rajeswaran J, et al. Tricuspid valve repair: durability and risk factors for failure. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2004; 127:674–685.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-4. Scully HE, Armstrong CS. Tricuspid valve replacement. Fifteen years of experience with mechanical prostheses and bioprostheses. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1995;109:1035–1041.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-5. de Cock CC, Vinkers M, Van Campe LC, et al. Long-term outcome of patients with multiple (. or 5 3) noninfected transvenous leads: a clinical and echocardiographic study. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2000; 23:423–426.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-6. Eleid MF, Blauwet LA, Cha YM, et al. Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve regurgitation associated with pacemaker or defibrillator lead implantation. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012;59:813–818.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-7. Navia JL, Atik FA, Grimm RA, et al. Minimally invasive left ventricular epicardial lead placement: surgical techniques for heart failure resynchronization therapy. Ann Thorac Surg 2005;79:1536–1544. discussion-44.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-8. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-9. Indik JH, Gimbel JR, Abe H, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging and radiation exposure in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e97–e153.

  • S8.1.2.3.3-10. Padmanabhan D, Kella DK, Mehta R, et al. Safety of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with legacy pacemakers and defibrillators and abandoned leads. Heart Rhythm 2018;15:228–233.

8.1.2.4. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

  • S8.1.2.4-1. Piazza N, Onuma Y, Jesserun E, et al. Early and persistent intraventricular conduction abnormalities and requirements for pacemaking after percutaneous replacement of the aortic valve. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2008; 1:310–316.

  • S8.1.2.4-2. Siontis GC, Juni P, Pilgrim T, et al. Predictors of permanent pacemaker implantation in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR: a meta-analysis. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:129–140.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e218

S8.1.2.4-3. Boerlage-Van Dijk K, Kooiman KM, Yong ZY, et al. Predictors and permanency of cardiac conduction disorders and necessity of pacing after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2014;37:1520–1529.

  • S8.1.2.4-4. Regueiro A, Abdul-Jawad Altisent O, Del Trigo M, et al. Impact of newonset left bundle branch block and periprocedural permanent pacemaker implantation on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Circ Cardiovasc Interv 2016;9:e003635.

S8.1.2.4-5. Watanabe Y, Kozuma K, Hioki H, et al. Pre-existing right bundle branch block increases risk for death after transcatheter aortic valve replacement with a balloon-expandable valve. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2016; 9:2210–2216.

  • S8.1.2.4-6. Egger F, Nurnberg M, Rohla M, et al. High-degree atrioventricular block in patients with preexisting bundle branch block or bundle branch block occurring during transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Heart Rhythm 2014;11:2176–2182.

  • S8.1.2.4-7. Roten L, Wenaweser P, Delacretaz E, et al. Incidence and predictors of atrioventricular conduction impairment after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Am J Cardiol 2010;106:1473–1480.

  • S8.1.2.4-8. Nazif TM, Dizon JM, Hahn RT, et al. Predictors and clinical outcomes of permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: the PARTNER (Placement of AoRtic TraNscathetER Valves) trial and registry. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2015;8:60–69.

  • S8.1.2.4-9. Urena M, Mok M, Serra V, et al. Predictive factors and long-term clinical consequences of persistent left bundle branch block following transcatheter aortic valve implantation with a balloon-expandable valve. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012;60:1743–1752.

  • S8.1.2.4-10. Testa L, Latib A, De Marco F, et al. Clinical impact of persistent left bundle-branch block after transcatheter aortic valve implantation with CoreValve Revalving System. Circulation 2013;127:1300–1307.

  • S8.1.2.4-11. Franzoni I, Latib A, Maisano F, et al. Comparison of incidence and predictors of left bundle branch block after transcatheter aortic valve implantation using the CoreValve versus the Edwards valve. Am J Cardiol 2013;112:554–559.

  • S8.1.2.4-12. Toggweiler S, Stortecky S, Holy E, et al. The electrocardiogram after transcatheter aortic valve replacement determines the risk for postprocedural high-degree AV block and the need for telemetry monitoring. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2016;9:1269–1276.

  • S8.1.2.4-13. van der Boon RM, Van Mieghem NM, Theuns DA, et al. Pacemaker dependency after transcatheter aortic valve implantation with the selfexpanding Medtronic CoreValve System. Int J Cardiol 2013; 168:1269–1273.

  • S8.1.2.4-14. Dizon JM, Nazif TM, Hess PL, et al. Chronic pacing and adverse outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Heart 2015; 101:1665–1671.

  • S8.1.2.4-15. Mauri V, Reimann A, Stern D, et al. Predictors of permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement with the SAPIEN 3. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2016;9:2200–2209.

  • S8.1.2.4-16. Schymik G, Tzamalis P, Bramlage P, et al. Clinical impact of a new left bundle branch block following TAVI implantation: 1-year results of the TAVIK cohort. Clin Res Cardiol 2015;104:351–362.

  • S8.1.2.4-17. Urena M, Webb JG, Eltchaninoff H, et al. Late cardiac death in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement: incidence and predictors of advanced heart failure and sudden cardiac death. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015;65:437–448.

  • S8.1.2.4-18. Nazif TM, Williams MR, Hahn RT, et al. Clinical implications of newonset left bundle branch block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: analysis of the PARTNER experience. Eur Heart J 2014; 35:1599–1607.

  • S8.1.2.4-19. Auffret V, Webb JG, Eltchaninoff H, et al. Clinical impact of baseline right bundle branch block in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2017;10:1564–1574.

  • S8.1.2.4-20. Rampat R, Khawaja MZ, Hilling-Smith R, et al. Conduction abnormalities and permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement using the repositionable LOTUS device: the United Kingdom experience. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2017; 10:1247–1253.

  • S8.1.2.4-21. Rivard L, Schram G, Asgar A, et al. Electrocardiographic and electrophysiological predictors of atrioventricular block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Heart Rhythm 2015;12:321–329.

8.1.2.5. Heart Transplant, Surgical Myectomy, and Alcohol Septal Ablation

8.1.2.5.1. After Heart Transplant

  • S8.1.2.5.1-1. Cantillon DJ, Tarakji KG, Hu T, et al. Long-term outcomes and clinical predictors for pacemaker-requiring bradyarrhythmias after cardiac transplantation: analysis of the UNOS/OPTN cardiac transplant database. Heart Rhythm 2010;7:1567–1571.

  • S8.1.2.5.1-2. Jones DG, Mortsell DH, Rajaruthnam D, et al. Permanent pacemaker implantation early and late after heart transplantation: clinical indication, risk factors and prognostic implications. J Heart Lung Transplant 2011;30:1257–1265.

  • S8.1.2.5.1-3. Mallidi HR, Bates M. Pacemaker use following heart transplantation. Ochsner J 2017;17:20–24.

  • S8.1.2.5.1-4. Wellmann P, Herrmann FE, Hagl C, et al. A single center study of 1,179 heart transplant patients—factors affecting pacemaker implantation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2017;40:247–254.

  • S8.1.2.5.1-5. Knight CS, Tallaj JA, Rayburn BK, et al. Bradycardia and syncope as a presentation of cardiac allograft rejection involving the conducting system. Cardiovasc Pathol 2010;19:117–120.

8.1.2.5.2. Surgical Myectomy and Alcohol Septal Ablation for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

  • S8.1.2.5.2-1. Axelsson A, Weibring K, Havndrup O, et al. Atrioventricular conduction after alcohol septal ablation for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2014;15:214–221.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-2. El-Jack SS, Nasif M, Blake JW, et al. Predictors of complete heart block after alcohol septal ablation for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and the timing of pacemaker implantation. J Interv Cardiol 2007; 20:73–76.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-3. Liebregts M, Faber L, Jensen MK, et al. Outcomes of alcohol septal ablation in younger patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2017;10:1134–1143.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-4. Veselka J, Lawrenz T, Stellbrink C, et al. Low incidence of procedurerelated major adverse cardiac events after alcohol septal ablation for symptomatic hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Can J Cardiol 2013;29:1415–1421.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-5. Maron BJ, Spirito P, Shen WK, et al. Implantable cardioverterdefibrillators and prevention of sudden cardiac death in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. JAMA 2007;298:405–412.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-6. Thavikulwat AC, Tomson TT, Knight BP, et al. Appropriate implantable defibrillator therapy in adults with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2016;27:953–960.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-7. Wang W, Lian Z, Rowin EJ, et al. Prognostic implications of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia in high-risk patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2017;10:e004604.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-8. Balt JC, Wijffels MC, Boersma LV, et al. Continuous rhythm monitoring for ventricular arrhythmias after alcohol septal ablation for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Heart 2014;100:1865–1870.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-9. Lawrenz T, Lieder F, Bartelsmeier M, et al. Predictors of complete heart block after transcoronary ablation of septal hypertrophy: results of a prospective electrophysiological investigation in 172 patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. J Am Coll Cardiol 2007; 49:2356–2363.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-10. Gersh BJ, Maron BJ, Bonow RO, et al. 2011 ACCF/AHA guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Developed in collaboration with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, American Society of Echocardiography, American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, Heart Failure Society of America, Heart Rhythm Society, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. J Am Coll Cardiol 2011;58:e212–e260.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-11. Liebregts M, Vriesendorp PA, Mahmoodi BK, et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of long-term outcomes after septal reduction therapy in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. JACC Heart Fail 2015;3:896–905.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-12. Poon SS, Field M, Gupta D, et al. Surgical septal myectomy or alcohol septal ablation: which approach offers better outcomes for patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy? Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg 2017;24:951–961.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e219

  • S8.1.2.5.2-13. Qin JX, Shiota T, Lever HM, et al. Conduction system abnormalities in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy following septal reduction interventions. Am J Cardiol 2004;93:171–175.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-14. Ralph-Edwards A, Woo A, McCrindle BW, et al. Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: comparison of outcomes after myectomy or alcohol ablation adjusted by propensity score. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2005;129:351–358.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-15. Talreja DR, Nishimura RA, Edwards WD, et al. Alcohol septal ablation versus surgical septal myectomy: comparison of effects on atrioventricular conduction tissue. J Am Coll Cardiol 2004;44:2329–2332.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-16. Kim LK, Swaminathan RV, Looser P, et al. Hospital volume outcomes after septal myectomy and alcohol septal ablation for treatment of obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: US nationwide inpatient database, 2003-2011. JAMA Cardiol 2016;1:324–332.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-17. Chang SM, Nagueh SF, Spencer WH 3rd, et al. Complete heart block: determinants and clinical impact in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy undergoing nonsurgical septal reduction therapy. J Am Coll Cardiol 2003;42:296–300.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-18. Fitzgerald P, Kusumoto F. The effects of septal myectomy and alcohol septal ablation for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy on the cardiac conduction system. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2018;52:403–408.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-19. Al-Khatib SM, Stevenson WG, Ackerman MJ, et al. 2017 AHA/ACC/ HRS guideline for management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;72:e91–e220.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-20. Ommen SR, Maron BJ, Olivotto I, et al. Long-term effects of surgical septal myectomy on survival in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. J Am Coll Cardiol 2005;46:470–476.

  • S8.1.2.5.2-21. Schuller JL, ZipseMM, Krantz MJ, et al. Incidence and predictors of late complete heart block after alcohol septal ablation treatment of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. J Interv Cardiol 2015;28:90–97.

8.1.2.6. Managing Episodes of Bradycardia Associated With Postoperative AF

  • S8.1.2.6-1. Maisel WH, Rawn JD, Stevenson WG. Atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. Ann Intern Med 2001;135:1061–1073.

  • S8.1.2.6-2. Gillinov AM, Bagiella E, Moskowitz AJ, et al. Rate control versus rhythm control for atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. N Engl J Med 2016; 374:1911–1921.

  • S8.1.2.6-3. Levine SA, Miller H, Penton GB. Some clinical features of complete heart block. Circulation 1956;13:801–824.

  • S8.1.2.6-4. Echahidi N, Pibarot P, O’Hara G, et al. Mechanisms, prevention, and treatment of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. J Am Coll Cardiol 2008;51:793–801.

8.2. Bradycardia Management for Adult Congenital Heart Disease

  • S8.2-1. Albin G, Hayes DL, Holmes DR Jr. Sinus node dysfunction in pediatric and young adult patients: treatment by implantation of a permanent pacemaker in 39 cases. Mayo Clin Proc 1985;60:667–672.

  • S8.2-2. Diller GP, Dimopoulos K, Okonko D, et al. Heart rate response during exercise predicts survival in adults with congenital heart disease. J Am Coll Cardiol 2006;48:1250–1256.

  • S8.2-3. Fishberger SB, Wernovsky G, Gentles TL, et al. Factors that influence the development of atrial flutter after the Fontan operation. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1997;113:80–86.

  • S8.2-4. Gelatt M, Hamilton RM, McCrindle BW, et al. Arrhythmia and mortality after the Mustard procedure: a 30-year single-center experience. J Am Coll Cardiol 1997;29:194–201.

  • S8.2-5. Helbing WA, Hansen B, Ottenkamp J, et al. Long-term results of atrial correction for transposition of the great arteries. Comparison of Mustard and Senning operations. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1994;108:363–372.

  • S8.2-6. Sanders P, Morton JB, Kistler PM, et al. Electrophysiological and electroanatomic characterization of the atria in sinus node disease: evidence of diffuse atrial remodeling. Circulation 2004;109:1514–1522.

  • S8.2-7. Connelly MS, Liu PP, Williams WG, et al. Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries in the adult: functional status and complications. J Am Coll Cardiol 1996;27:1238–1243.

  • S8.2-8. Graham TP Jr, Bernard YD, Mellen BG, et al. Long-term outcome in congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries: a multi-institutional study. J Am Coll Cardiol 2000;36:255–261.

  • S8.2-9. Lundstrom U, Bull C, Wyse RK, et al. The natural and "unnatural" history of congenitally corrected transposition. Am J Cardiol 1990;65:1222–1229.

  • S8.2-10. Dewey RC, Capeless MA, Levy AM. Use of ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring to identify high-risk patients with congenital complete heart block. N Engl J Med 1987;316:835–839.

  • S8.2-11. Michaelsson M, Jonzon A, Riesenfeld T. Isolated congenital complete atrioventricular block in adult life. A prospective study. Circulation 1995; 92:442–449.

  • S8.2-12. Glikson M, Dearani JA, Hyberger LK, et al. Indications, effectiveness, and long-term dependency in permanent pacing after cardiac surgery. Am J Cardiol 1997;80:1309–1313.

  • S8.2-13. Kim MH, Deeb GM, Eagle KA, et al. Complete atrioventricular block after valvular heart surgery and the timing of pacemaker implantation. Am J Cardiol 2001;87:649–651. a10.

  • S8.2-14. Rhodes LA, Walsh EP, Gamble WJ, et al. Benefits and potential risks of atrial antitachycardia pacing after repair of congenital heart disease. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1995;18:1005–S8. 2-16.

  • S8.2-15. Stephenson EA, Casavant D, Tuzi J, et al. Efficacy of atrial antitachycardia pacing using the Medtronic AT500 pacemaker in patients with congenital heart disease. Am J Cardiol 2003;92:871–876.

  • S8.2-16. Janousek J, Paul T, Luhmer I, et al. Atrial baffle procedures for complete transposition of the great arteries: natural course of sinus node dysfunction and risk factors for dysrhythmias and sudden death. Z Kardiol 1994; 83:933–938.

  • S8.2-17. DeSimone CV, Friedman PA, Noheria A, et al. Stroke or transient ischemic attack in patients with transvenous pacemaker or defibrillator and echocardiographically detected patent foramen ovale. Circulation 2013; 128:1433–1441.

  • S8.2-18. Khairy P, Landzberg MJ, Gatzoulis MA, et al. Transvenous pacing leads and systemic thromboemboli in patients with intracardiac shunts: a multicenter study. Circulation 2006;113:2391–2397.

  • S8.2-19. Silvetti MS, Drago F, Rava L. Long-term outcome of transvenous bipolar atrial leads implanted in children and young adults with congenital heart disease. Europace 2012;14:1002–1007.

  • S8.2-20. Gillette PC, Wampler DG, Shannon C, et al. Use of atrial pacing in a young population. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1985;8:94–100.

  • S8.2-21. Silvetti MS, Drago F, Marcora S, et al. Outcome of single-chamber, ventricular pacemakers with transvenous leads implanted in children. Europace 2007;9:894–899.

  • S8.2-22. Abu-El-Haija B, Bhave PD, Campbell DN, et al. Venous stenosis after transvenous lead placement: a study of outcomes and risk factors in 212 consecutive patients. J Am Heart Assoc 2015;4:e001878.

  • S8.2-23. Emmel M, Sreeram N, Brockmeier K, et al. Superior vena cava stenting and transvenous pacemaker implantation (stent and pace) after the Mustard operation. Clin Res Cardiol 2007;96:17–22.

  • S8.2-24. Karpawich PP, Gillette PC, Garson A Jr, et al. Congenital complete atrioventricular block: clinical and electrophysiologic predictors of need for pacemaker insertion. Am J Cardiol 1981;48:1098–1102.

  • S8.2-25. Murray LE, Smith AH, Flack EC, et al. Genotypic and phenotypic predictors of complete heart block and recovery of conduction after surgical repair of congenital heart disease. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:402–409.

  • S8.2-26. McLeod CJ, Attenhofer Jost CH, Warnes CA, et al. Epicardial versus endocardial permanent pacing in adults with congenital heart disease. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2010;28:235–243.

  • S8.2-27. Walker F, Siu SC, Woods S, et al. Long-term outcomes of cardiac pacing in adults with congenital heart disease. J Am Coll Cardiol 2004;43:1894–1901.

  • S8.2-28. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S8.2-29. Indik JH, Gimbel JR, Abe H, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on magnetic resonance imaging and radiation exposure in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e97–e153.

  • S8.2-30. Padmanabhan D, Kella DK, Mehta R, et al. Safety of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with legacy pacemakers and defibrillators and abandoned leads. Heart Rhythm 2018;15:228–233.

  • S8.2-31. Lamas GA, Lee KL, Sweeney MO, et al. Ventricular pacing or dual-chamber pacing for sinus-node dysfunction. N Engl J Med 2002;346:1854–1862.

  • S8.2-32. Skanes AC, Krahn AD, Yee R, et al. Progression to chronic atrial fibrillation after pacing: the Canadian Trial of Physiologic Pacing. CTOPP Investigators. J Am Coll Cardiol 2001;38:167–172.

  • S8.2-33. Opic P, Yap SC, Van Kranenburg M, et al. Atrial-based pacing has no benefit over ventricular pacing in preventing atrial arrhythmias in adults with congenital heart disease. Europace 2013;15:1757–1762.

  • S8.2-34. Lenz CJ, DeSimone CV, Ponamgi SP, et al. Cardiac implantable electronic device lead-based masses and atrial fibrillation ablation: a case-based illustration of periprocedural anticoagulation management strategies. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2016;46:237–243.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e220

8.3. Management of Bradycardia in Patients With an Acute MI

  • S8.3-1. Auffret V, Loirat A, Leurent G, et al. High-degree atrioventricular block complicating ST segment elevation myocardial infarction in the contemporary era. Heart 2016;102:40–49.

  • S8.3-2. Hynes JK, Holmes DR Jr, Harrison CE. Five-year experience with temporary pacemaker therapy in the coronary care unit. Mayo Clin Proc 1983; 58:122–126.

  • S8.3-3. Jowett NI, Thompson DR, Pohl JE. Temporary transvenous cardiac pacing: 6 years experience in one coronary care unit. Postgrad Med J 1989; 65:211–215.

  • S8.3-4. Kim HL, Kim SH, Seo JB, et al. Influence of second- and third-degree heart block on 30-day outcome following acute myocardial infarction in the drugeluting stent era. Am J Cardiol 2014;114:1658–1662.

  • S8.3-5. Ginks WR, Sutton R, Oh W, et al. Long-term prognosis after acute anterior infarction with atrioventricular block. Br Heart J 1977;39:186–189.

  • S8.3-6. Singh SM, FitzGerald G, Yan AT, et al. High-grade atrioventricular block in acute coronary syndromes: insights from the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events. Eur Heart J 2015;36:976–983.

  • S8.3-7. Watson RD, Glover DR, Page AJ, et al. The Birmingham trial of permanent pacing in patients with intraventricular conduction disorders after acute myocardial infarction. Am Heart J 1984;108:496–501.

  • S8.3-8. Ritter WS, Atkins JM, Blomqvist CG, et al. Permanent pacing in patients with transient trifascicular block during acute myocardial infarction. Am J Cardiol 1976;38:205–208.

  • S8.3-9. Feigl D, Ashkenazy J, Kishon Y. Early and late atrioventricular block in acute inferior myocardial infarction. J Am Coll Cardiol 1984;4:35–38.

  • S8.3-10. Scheinman MM, Thorburn D, Abbott JA. Use of atropine in patients with acute myocardial infarction and sinus bradycardia. Circulation 1975; 52:627–633.

  • S8.3-11. Swart G, Brady WJ Jr, DeBehnke DJ, et al. Acute myocardial infarction complicated by hemodynamically unstable bradyarrhythmia: prehospital and ED treatment with atropine. Am J Emerg Med 1999;17:647–652.

  • S8.3-12. Gang UJ, Hvelplund A, Pedersen S, et al. High-degree atrioventricular block complicating ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in the era of primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Europace 2012;14:1639–1645.

  • S8.3-13. Gadler F, Valzania C, Linde C. Current use of implantable electrical devices in Sweden: data from the Swedish pacemaker and implantable cardioverterdefibrillator registry. Europace 2015;17:69–77.

  • S8.3-14. Armaganijan LV, Toff WD, Nielsen JC, et al. Are elderly patients at increased risk of complications following pacemaker implantation? A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012; 35:131–134.

  • S8.3-15. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S8.3-16. Lee JZ, Ling J, Diehl NN, et al. Mortality and cerebrovascular events after heart rhythm disorder management procedures. Circulation 2018; 137:24–33.

  • S8.3-17. Col JJ, Weinberg SL. The incidence and mortality of intraventricular conduction defects in acute myocardial infarction. Am J Cardiol 1972; 29:344–350.

  • S8.3-18. Hindman MC, Wagner GS, JaRo M, et al. The clinical significance of bundle branch block complicating acute myocardial infarction. 2. Indications for

  • temporary and permanent pacemaker insertion. Circulation 1978; 58:689–699.

  • S8.3-19. Hindman MC, Wagner GS, JaRo M, et al. The clinical significance of bundle branch block complicating acute myocardial infarction. 1. Clinical characteristics, hospital mortality, and one-year follow-up. Circulation 1978; 58:679–688.

  • S8.3-20. Alnsasra H, Ben-Avraham B, Gottlieb S, et al. High-grade atrioventricular block in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Insights from a contemporary multi-center survey. J Electrocardiol 2018;51:386–391.

  • S8.3-21. Kosmidou I, Redfors B, Dordi R, et al. Incidence, predictors, and outcomes of high-grade atrioventricular block in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (from the HORIZONS-AMI Trial). Am J Cardiol 2017;119:1295–1301.

  • S8.3-22. Melgarejo-Moreno A, Galcera-Tomas J, Consuegra-Sanchez L, et al. Relation of new permanent right or left bundle branch block on short- and longterm mortality in acute myocardial infarction bundle branch block and myocardial infarction. Am J Cardiol 2015;116:1003–1009.

  • S8.3-23. Ranganathan N, Dhurandhar R, Phillips JH, et al. His Bundle electrogram in bundle-branch block. Circulation 1972;45:282–294.

  • S8.3-24. Meine TJ, Al-Khatib SM, Alexander JH, et al. Incidence, predictors, and outcomes of high-degree atrioventricular block complicating acute myocar-

dial infarction treated with thrombolytic therapy. Am Heart J 2005; 149:670–674.

  • S8.3-25. Kusumoto FM, Calkins H, Boehmer J, et al. HRS/ACC/AHA expert consensus statement on the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy in patients who are not included or not well represented in clinical trials. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:1143–1177.

  • S8.3-26. Al-Khatib SM, Stevenson WG, Ackerman MJ, et al. 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS guideline for management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;72:e91–e220.

  • S8.3-27. Neumar RW, Otto CW, Link MS, et al. Part 8: adult advanced cardiovascular life support. 2010 American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation 2010; 122:S729–S767.

  • S8.3-28. Brady WJ, Swart G, DeBehnke DJ, et al. The efficacy of atropine in the treatment of hemodynamically unstable bradycardia and atrioventricular block: prehospital and emergency department considerations. Resuscitation 1999;41:47–55.

  • S8.3-29. Sodeck GH, Domanovits H, Meron G, et al. Compromising bradycardia: management in the emergency department. Resuscitation 2007;73:96–102.

  • S8.3-30. Altun A, Kirdar C, Ozbay G. Effect of aminophylline in patients with atropine-resistant late advanced atrioventricular block during acute inferior myocardial infarction. Clin Cardiol 1998;21:759–762.

  • S8.3-31. Bertolet BD, McMurtrie EB, Hill JA, et al. Theophylline for the treatment of atrioventricular block after myocardial infarction. Ann Intern Med 1995; 123:509–511.

8.4. Neurologic Disorders

  • S8.4-1. van Bree MD, Roos YB, van der Bilt IA, et al. Prevalence and characterization of ECG abnormalities after intracerebral hemorrhage. Neurocrit Care 2010;12:50–55.

  • S8.4-2. Feingold B, Mahle WT, Auerbach S, et al. Management of cardiac involvement associated with neuromuscular diseases: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation 2017;136:e200–e231.

  • S8.4-3. Manogue M, Hirsh DS, Lloyd M. Cardiac electrophysiology of patients with spinal cord injury. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:920–927.

  • S8.4-4. Grossman RG, Frankowski RF, Burau KD, et al. Incidence and severity of acute complications after spinal cord injury. J Neurosurg Spine 2012; 17:119–128.

8.4.1. Epilepsy

  • S8.4.1-1. Bestawros M, Darbar D, Arain A, et al. Ictal asystole and ictal syncope: insights into clinical management. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2015; 8:159–164.

  • S8.4.1-2. Lanz M, Oehl B, Brandt A, et al. Seizure induced cardiac asystole in epilepsy patients undergoing long term video-EEG monitoring. Seizure 2011;20:167–172.

  • S8.4.1-3. Schuele SU, Bermeo AC, Alexopoulos AV, et al. Video-electrographic and clinical features in patients with ictal asystole. Neurology 2007; 69:434–441.

  • S8.4.1-4. Tenyi D, Gyimesi C, Kupo P, et al. Ictal asystole: a systematic review. Epilepsia 2017;58:356–362.

  • S8.4.1-5. Constantin L, Martins JB, Fincham RW, et al. Bradycardia and syncope as manifestations of partial epilepsy. J Am Coll Cardiol 1990;15:900–905.

9. Evaluation of the Risks for Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients Who Require Permanent Pacing

  • S9-1. Anselme F, Moubarak G, Savoure A, et al. Implantable cardioverterdefibrillators in lamin A/C mutation carriers with cardiac conduction disorders. Heart Rhythm 2013;10:1492–1498.

  • S9-2. Gadler F, Valzania C, Linde C. Current use of implantable electrical devices in Sweden: data from the Swedish pacemaker and implantable cardioverterdefibrillator registry. Europace 2015;17:69–77.

  • S9-3. Gupta N, Kiley ML, Anthony F, et al. Multi-center, community-based cardiac implantable electronic devices registry: population, device utilization, and outcomes. J Am Heart Assoc 2016;5:e002798.

  • S9-4. Kirkfeldt RE, Johansen JB, Nohr EA, et al. Complications after cardiac implantable electronic device implantations: an analysis of a complete, nationwide cohort in Denmark. Eur Heart J 2014;35:1186–1194.

  • S9-5. Maron BJ, Spirito P, Shen WK, et al. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and prevention of sudden cardiac death in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. JAMA 2007;298:405–412.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e221

  • S9-6. Sochala M, Wahbi K, Sorbets E, et al. Risk for complications after pacemaker or cardioverter defibrillator implantations in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1. J Neuromuscul Dis 2017;4:175–181.

  • S9-7. Takaya Y, Kusano KF, Nakamura K, et al. Outcomes in patients with highdegree atrioventricular block as the initial manifestation of cardiac sarcoidosis. Am J Cardiol 2015;115:505–509.

  • S9-8. Kusumoto FM, Calkins H, Boehmer J, et al. HRS/ACC/AHA expert consensus statement on the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy in patients who are not included or not well represented in clinical trials. J Am Coll Cardiol 2014;64:1143–1177.

  • S9-9. Al-Khatib SM, Stevenson WG, Ackerman MJ, et al. 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS guideline for management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;72:e91–e220.

10. Cost and Value Considerations

  • S10-1. MedicareHelp. Permanent Cardiac Pacemaker Implant No Complications. Available at: http://www.medicarehelp.org/cost-of-medicare/procedure/ permanent-cardiac-pacemaker-implant-no-complications. Accessed October 21, 2018.

  • S10-2. Caro J, Ward A, Moller J. Modelling the health benefits and economic implications of implanting dual-chamber vs. single-chamber ventricular pacemakers in the UK. Europace 2006;8:449–455.

  • S10-3. Castelnuovo E, Stein K, Pitt M, et al. The effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of dual-chamber pacemakers compared with single-chamber pacemakers for bradycardia due to atrioventricular block or sick sinus syndrome: systematic review and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2005;9:iii. xi-xiii, 1-246.

  • S10-4. Deniz HB, Caro JJ, Ward A, et al. Economic and health consequences of managing bradycardia with dual-chamber compared to single-chamber ventricular pacemakers in Italy. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2008; 9:43–50.

  • S10-5. Edwards SJ, Karner C, Trevor N, et al. Dual-chamber pacemakers for treating symptomatic bradycardia due to sick sinus syndrome without atrioventricular block: a systematic review and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2015;19:1–210.

  • S10-6. Rinfret S, Cohen DJ, Lamas GA, et al. Cost-effectiveness of dual-chamber pacing compared with ventricular pacing for sinus node dysfunction. Circulation 2005;111:165–172.

  • S10-7. Nielsen JC, Thomsen PE, Hojberg S, et al. A comparison of single-lead atrial pacing with dual-chamber pacing in sick sinus syndrome. Eur Heart J 2011; 32:686–696.

  • S10-8. Oddershede L, Riahi S, Nielsen JC, et al. Health economic evaluation of single-lead atrial pacing vs. dual-chamber pacing in sick sinus syndrome. Europace 2014;16:866–872.

11. Shared Decision-Making

  • S11-1. Ottenberg AL, Mueller PS, Topazian RJ, et al. "It’s not broke, so let’s not try to fix it": why patients decline a cardiovascular implantable electronic device. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2014;37:1306–1314.

  • S11-2. Lewis KB, Stacey D, Matlock DD. Making decisions about implantable cardioverter-defibrillators from implantation to end of life: an integrative review of patients’ perspectives. Patient 2014;7:243–260.

  • S11-3. Stewart GC, Weintraub JR, Pratibhu PP, et al. Patient expectations from implantable defibrillators to prevent death in heart failure. J Card Fail 2010; 16:106–113.

  • S11-4. Hauptman PJ, Chibnall JT, Guild C, et al. Patient perceptions, physician communication, and the implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. JAMA Intern Med 2013;173:571–577.

  • S11-5. Yuhas J, Mattocks K, Gravelin L, et al. Patients’ attitudes and perceptions of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators: potential barriers to appropriate primary prophylaxis. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012;35:1179–1187.

  • S11-6. Elwyn G, Edwards A, Kinnersley P, et al. Shared decision making and the concept of equipoise: the competences of involving patients in healthcare choices. Br J Gen Pract 2000;50:892–899.

  • S11-7. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Wilkoff BL, et al. 2017 HRS expert consensus statement on cardiovascular implantable electronic device lead management and extraction. Heart Rhythm 2017;14:e503–e551.

  • S11-8. Lampert R, Hayes DL, Annas GJ, et al. HRS expert consensus statement on the management of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in patients nearing end of life or requesting withdrawal of therapy. Heart Rhythm 2010;7:1008–1026.

  • S11-9. Lau CP, Tai YT, Lee PW, et al. Quality-of-life in DDDR pacing: atrioventricular synchrony or rate adaptation? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1994; 17:1838–1843.

  • S11-10. Lukl J, Doupal V, Heinc P. Quality-of-life during DDD and dual sensor VVIR pacing. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1994;17:1844–1848.

  • S11-11. Armaganijan LV, Toff WD, Nielsen JC, et al. Are elderly patients at increased risk of complications following pacemaker implantation? A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2012;35:131–134.

12. Quality of Life

  • S12-1. Fleischmann KE, Orav EJ, Lamas GA, et al. Pacemaker implantation and quality of life in the Mode Selection Trial (MOST). Heart Rhythm 2006; 3:653–659.

  • S12-2. Lamas GA, Lee KL, Sweeney MO, et al. Ventricular pacing or dual-chamber pacing for sinus-node dysfunction. N Engl J Med 2002;346:1854–1862.

  • S12-3. Lamas GA, Orav EJ, Stambler BS, et al. Quality of life and clinical outcomes in elderly patients treated with ventricular pacing as compared with dualchamber pacing. Pacemaker Selection in the Elderly Investigators. N Engl J Med 1998;338:1097–1104.

  • S12-4. Newman D, Lau C, Tang AS, et al. Effect of pacing mode on health-related quality of life in the Canadian Trial of Physiologic Pacing. Am Heart J 2003;145:430–437.

  • S12-5. Udo EO, van Hemel NM, Zuithoff NP, et al. Long term quality-of-life in patients with bradycardia pacemaker implantation. Int J Cardiol 2013; 168:2159–2163.

  • S12-6. Hoijer CJ, Brandt J, Willenheimer R, et al. Improved cardiac function and quality of life following upgrade to dual chamber pacing after long-term ventricular stimulation. Eur Heart J 2002;23:490–497.

  • S12-7. Lau CP, Tai YT, Lee PW, et al. Quality-of-life in DDDR pacing: atrioventricular synchrony or rate adaptation? Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1994; 17:1838–1843.

  • S12-8. Lukl J, Doupal V, Heinc P. Quality-of-life during DDD and dual sensor VVIR pacing. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1994;17:1844–1848.

  • S12-9. Ouali S, Neffeti E, Ghoul K, et al. DDD versus VVIR pacing in patients, ages 70 and over, with complete heart block. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2010; 33:583–589.

  • S12-10. Deharo JC, Badier M, Thirion X, et al. A randomized, single-blind crossover comparison of the effects of chronic DDD and dual sensor VVIR pacing mode on quality-of-life and cardiopulmonary performance in complete heart block. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1996;19:1320–1326.

13. Discontinuation of Pacemaker Therapy

S13-1. Iskos D, Lurie KG, Sakaguchi S, et al. Termination of implantable pacemaker therapy: experience in five patients. Ann Intern Med 1997;126:787–790.

  • S13-2. Martinelli M, Costa R, Nishioka S, et al. Criteria for pacemaker explant in patients without a precise indication for pacemaker implantation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2002;25:272–277.

  • S13-3. Epstein AE, DiMarco JP, Ellenbogen KA, et al. 2012 ACCF/AHA/HRS focused update incorporated into the ACCF/AHA/HRS 2008 guidelines for device-based therapy of cardiac rhythm abnormalities: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013;61:e6–e75.

  • S13-4. Kowey PR. The unnecessary pacemaker controversy revisited. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2002;25:269–271.

  • S13-5. Stegman SS, Burroughs JM, Henthorn RW. Asymptomatic bradyarrhythmias as a marker for sleep apnea: appropriate recognition and treatment may reduce the need for pacemaker therapy. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 1996;19:899–904.

  • S13-6. Greenspan AM, Kay HR, Berger BC, et al. Incidence of unwarranted implantation of permanent cardiac pacemakers in a large medical population. N Engl J Med 1988;318:158–163.

  • S13-7. Al-Hijji MA, Killu AM, Yousefian O, et al. Outcomes of lead extraction without subsequent device reimplantation. Europace 2017;19:1527–1534.

14. End-of-Life Considerations

S14-1. Mueller PS, Jenkins SM, Bramstedt KA, et al. Deactivating implanted cardiac devices in terminally ill patients: practices and attitudes. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2008;31:560–568.

  • S14-2. Lampert R, Hayes DL, Annas GJ, et al. HRS expert consensus statement on the management of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in patients nearing end of life or requesting withdrawal of therapy. Heart Rhythm 2010;7:1008–1026.

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e222

  • S14-3. Mueller PS, Hook CC, Hayes DL. Ethical analysis of withdrawal of pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator support at the end of life. Mayo Clin Proc 2003;78:959–963.

15. Knowledge Gaps and Future Research

S15-1. Lustgarten DL, Calame S, Crespo EM, et al. Electrical resynchronization induced by direct His-bundle pacing. Heart Rhythm 2010;7:15–21.

  • S15-2. Deshmukh P, Casavant DA, Romanyshyn M, et al. Permanent, direct Hisbundle pacing: a novel approach to cardiac pacing in patients with normal His-Purkinje activation. Circulation 2000;101:869–877.

  • S15-3. Brignole M, Menozzi C, Moya A, et al. Pacemaker therapy in patients with neurally mediated syncope and documented asystole: Third International Study on Syncope of Uncertain Etiology (ISSUE-3): a randomized trial. Circulation 2012;125:2566–2571.

  • S15-4. Varosy PD, Chen LY, Miller AL, et al. Pacing as a treatment for reflexmediated (vasovagal, situational, or carotid sinus hypersensitivity) syncope: a systematic review for the 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2017;136:e123–e135.

  • S15-5. Curtis AB, Worley SJ, Chung ES, et al. Improvement in clinical outcomes with biventricular versus right ventricular pacing: The BLOCK HF Study. J Am Coll Cardiol 2016;67:2148–2157.

  • S15-6. Curtis AB, Worley SJ, Adamson PB, et al. Biventricular pacing for atrioventricular block and systolic dysfunction. N Engl J Med 2013;368:1585–1593.

  • S15-7. Reynolds D, Duray GZ, Omar R, et al. A leadless intracardiac transcatheter pacing system. N Engl J Med 2016;374:533–541.

  • S15-8. Reddy VY, Exner DV, Cantillon DJ, et al. Percutaneous implantation of an entirely intracardiac leadless pacemaker. N Engl J Med 2015;373:1125–1135.

— Appendix 1. Author Relationships With Industry and Other Entities (Relevant) 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS Guideline on the Evaluation and Management of Patients With Bradycardia and Cardiac Conduction Delay (July 2018)

Institutional,
Ownership/Organizational,Voting
SpeakersPartnership/Personalor Other FinancialExpertRecusals
Committee MemberEmploymentConsultantBureauPrincipalResearchBeneftWitnessby Section*
Fred M. KusumotoMayo Clinic—Professor ofNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
(Chair)Medicine
Mark H. SchoenfeldYale University School ofNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
(Vice Chair)Medicine—Clinical
Professor of Medicine
Coletta C. BarrettAmerican Heart Association—NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Chairman of the Board
James R. EdgertonThe Heart Hospital Baylor—NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Director of Education
Kenneth A. EllenbogenVCU Medical Center—Director,- Biotronik†- BiosenseNone- Biosense- Biosense Webster†None4.3.1, 4.3.2,
Clinical Electrophysiology- Boston Scientifc† - JanssenWebster† - Biotronik†Webster† - Boston- Boston Scientifc† - Medtronic†5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13
Pharmaceuticals- BostonScientifc†- Sanof-Aventis
- Medtronic†Scientifc†- Medtronic†
- Pfzer†- Medtronic†- Sanof-Aventis†
- St. Jude Medical†- St. Jude- Medtronic
Michael R. GoldMedical University of South- Boston Scientifc†Medical† NoneNone(DSMB)† - BostonNoneNone4.3.1, 5, 6, 7,
Carolina—Director,- MedtronicScientifc‡8, 9, 11,
Division of Cardiology and- St. Jude Medical- St. Jude Medical‡13
Professor of Medicine
Nora F. GoldschlagerUniversity of California SanNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Francisco—Professor of
Clinical Medicine
Robert M. HamiltonUniversity of Toronto—NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Professor of Pediatrics
José A. JoglarUT Southwestern MedicalNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Center University—
Associate Professor of
Internal Medicine
Robert J. KimUniversity of Florida College ofNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Medicine—Assistant
Professor
Richard LeeSt. Louis UniversityNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Hospital—Co–Director,
Center for Comprehensive
Cardiovascular Care
Joseph E. MarineJohns Hopkins University—NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Associate Professor of
Medicine

(Continued)

Appendix 1. (Continued)

Institutional,
Ownership/Organizational,Voting
SpeakersPartnership/Personalor Other FinancialExpertRecusals
Committee MemberEmploymentConsultantBureauPrincipalResearchBeneftWitnessby Section*
Christopher J. McLeodMayo Clinic—Co–Director,NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Division of Cardiovascular
Diseases
Keith R. OkenMayo Clinic—ProgramNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Director, Cardiovascular
Diseases Fellowship and
Assistant Professor of
Medicine
Kristen K. PattonUniversity of Washington—NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Professor of Medicine
Cara PellegriniUniversity of California San- AbbottNoneNoneNoneNoneNone4.3.1, 5, 6, 7,
Francisco School of- Medtronic8, 9, 11,
Medicine—Associate13
Professor
Kimberly A. SelzmanUniversity of Utah School ofNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Medicine—Associate
Professor of Medicine
Annemarie ThompsonDuke University School ofNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Medicine—Professor of
Anesthesiology and
Medicine
Paul D. VarosyVA Eastern Colorado HealthNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
Care System—Director,
Cardiac Electrophysiology;
University of Colorado—
Associate Professor of
Medicine

ACC 5 American College of Cardiology; AHA 5 American Heart Association; DSMB 5 data safety monitoring board; HRS 5 Heart Rhythm Society; UT 5 University of Texas; VA 5 Veterans Affairs; VCU 5 Virginia Commonwealth University.

This table represents the relationships of committee members with industry and other entities that were determined to be relevant to this document. These relationships were reviewed and updated in conjunction with all meetings and/or conference calls of the writing committee during the document development process. The table does not necessarily reflect relationships with industry at the time of publication. A person is deemed to have a significant interest in a business if the interest represents ownership of 5% of the voting stock or share of the business entity, or ownership of $5,000 of the fair market value of the business entity; or if funds received by the person from the business entity exceed 5% of the person’s gross income for the previous year. Relationships that exist with no financial benefit are also included for the purpose of transparency. Relationships in this table are modest unless otherwise noted.

According to the ACC/AHA, a person has a relevant relationship IF: a) the relationship or interest relates to the same or similar subject matter, intellectual property or asset, topic, or issue addressed in the document; or b) the company/entity (with whom the relationship exists) makes a drug, drug class, or device addressed in the document or makes a competing drug or device addressed in the document; or c) the person or a member of the person’s household, has a reasonable potential for financial, professional or other personal gain or loss as a result of the issues/content addressed in the document.

CMS reported payments from Cardiofocus to Dr. Kusumoto in 2016 and 2017. Dr. Kusumoto has established that the study he participated in ended in 2014 and was published in 2015. CMS reported consulting payments to Dr. Lee from Abbott, Cryolife and Maquet in 2016. Dr. Lee has established that his participation with the companies ended in January 2015. CMS reported research payments from Medtronic to Dr. McLeod in 2016 and 2017. Dr. McLeod is disputing the payments.

*Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry and other entities may apply. †Significant relationship.

‡No financial benefit.

Kusumoto et al. 2018 Bradycardia Guideline

e225

— Appendix 2. Abbreviated Reviewer Relationships With Industry and Other Entities 2018 ACC/AHA/ HRS Guideline on the Evaluation and Management of Patients With Bradycardia and Cardiac Conduction Delay (August 2018)*

Comprehensive
ReviewerRepresentationEmploymentRWI?
Yong-Mei ChaOffcial Reviewer—AHAMayo Clinic, Division of CardiovascularNo
Diseases
Zachary D. GoldbergerOffcial Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceUniversity of Washington School ofNo
on Clinical Practice GuidelinesMedicine—Assistant Professor of
Medicine; Division of Cardiology,
Harborview Medical Center
Richard J. KovacsOffcial Reviewer—ACC Science andIndiana University School of Medicine,Yes
Quality CommitteeKrannert Institute of Cardiology—
Professor of Clinical Medicine
Kevin F. KwakuOffcial Reviewer—AHADartmouth-Hitchcock MedicalNo
Daniel M. Philbin JrOffcial Reviewer—ACC Board ofNew England Heart InstituteYes
Governors
Peter A. BradyOrganizational Reviewer—HRSMayo Clinic, Mayo FoundationNo
Ratika ParkashOrganizational Reviewer—HRSDalhousie University and Nova ScotiaYes
Health Authority—Professor of
Medicine, Division of Cardiology
(Arrhythmia); Director of Research,
Division of Cardiology
Jonathan PhilpottOrganizational Reviewer—STSMid-Atlantic Cardiothoracic SurgeonsYes
Kevin ShannonOrganizational Reviewer—PACESMattel Children’s Hospital at UCLA—Yes
Clinical Professor, Division of
Pediatric Cardiology
Gus J. VlahakesOrganizational Reviewer—AATSHarvard Medical School andNo
Massachusetts General Hospital—
Professor of Surgery
Nazem AkoumContent ReviewerUniversity of WashingtonNo
Sana M. Al-KhatibContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceDuke Clinical Research Institute—Yes
on Clinical Practice GuidelinesProfessor of Medicine
Joshua A. BeckmanContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceVanderbilt University Medical Center—Yes
on Clinical Practice GuidelinesDirector, Section of Vascular Medicine
Kim K. BirtcherContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceUniversity of Houston College ofYes
on Clinical Practice GuidelinesPharmacy—Clinical Professor
Mitchell I. CohenContent Reviewer—PACESPediatric Cardiology AssociatesNo
Freddy Del-Carpio MunozContent Reviewer—ERC MemberMayo ClinicNo
Bernard DennisContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA LayDennis Associates, LLCNo
Reviewer
Anita DeswalContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center—Yes
on Clinical Practice GuidelinesChief, Cardiology; Baylor College of
Medicine—Professor of Medicine
Andrew E. EpsteinContent ReviewerThe Hospital of the University ofYes
Pennsylvania—Professor of Medicine
Michael E. FieldContent ReviewerUniversity of Wisconsin School ofNo
Medicine and Public Health—
Director, Clinical Electrophysiology
and Cardiac Arrhythmia Service
Michael S. FirstenbergContent Reviewer—ACC SurgeonsThe Medical Center of Aurora—Chair,Yes
Member Section and LeadershipCardiovascular and Cardiothoracic
CouncilSurgery
John D. FisherContent Reviewer—ACCMontefore Medical Center—ProgramYes
Electrophysiology Member SectionDirector CCEP
Chair
Federico GentileContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceCentro Cardiologico GentileNo
on Clinical Practice Guidelines
Anne M. GillisContent ReviewerUniversity of CalgaryYes
(Continued)

Heart Rhythm, Vol 16, No 9, September 2019

e226

Appendix 2. (Continued)

Comprehensive
ReviewerRepresentationEmploymentRWI?
Bulent GorenekContent ReviewerEskisehir Osmangazi UniversityYes
Cardiology Department—Professor of
Cardiology
Mohamed H. HamdanContent ReviewerUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison—Yes
Chief of Cardiovascular Medicine
Glenn N. LevineContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceBaylor College of Medicine—ProfessorYes
on Clinical Practice Guidelinesof Medicine; Michael E. DeBakey
Medical Center—Director, Cardiac
Care Unit
Mark S. LinkContent ReviewerUT Southwestern Medical CenterYes
Daniel L. LustgartenContent ReviewerUniversity of Vermont School ofYes
Medicine
Siva K. MulpuruContent Reviewer—ERC MemberMayo Clinic—Associate ProfessorYes
Patrick T. O’GaraContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceHarvard Medical School—Professor ofYes
on Clinical Practice GuidelinesMedicine; Brigham and Women’s
Hospital—Director, Strategic
Planning
Brian OlshanskyContent ReviewerProfessor of MedicineYes
David S. ParkContent Reviewer—AHANYU Langone Health—AssistantNo
Professor, Department of Medicine
Mariann PianoContent Reviewer—ACC/AHA Task ForceVanderbilt University School ofYes
on Clinical Practice GuidelinesNursing—Nancy and Hilliard Travis
Professor of Nursing; Senior Associate
Dean for Research
Merritt H. RaittContent Reviewer—ERC Vice ChairOregon Heath & Science University; VANo
Portland Health Care System—
Cardiologist
Satish R. RajContent ReviewerUniversity of CalgaryYes
Win-Kuang ShenContent ReviewerMayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix Campus—No
Professor of Medicine; Chair,
Department of Cardiovascular
Diseases
David J. SlotwinerContent Reviewer—ERC ChairWeill Cornell Medical College—Chief,No
Division of Cardiology; Assistant
Professor of Clinical Medicine
Cynthia M. TracyContent ReviewerThe George Washington UniversityYes
School of Medicine & Health
Sciences—Professor of Medicine;
Associate Director of Cardiology
Richard G. TrohmanContent ReviewerRush University Medical CenterYes
Gaurav A. UpadhyayContent Reviewer—ACCThe University of Chicago Medicine—Yes
Electrophysiology Member SectionAssistant Professor of Medicine;
Director, Heart Station

AATS 5 American Association for Thoracic Surgery; ACC 5 American College of Cardiology; AHA 5 American Heart Association; CCEP 5 Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology; ERC 5 evidence review committee; HRS 5 Heart Rhythm Society; NYU 5 New York University; PACES 5 Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society; STS 5 Society of Thoracic Surgeons; UCLA 5 University of California, Los Angeles; UT 5 University of Texas; VA 5 Veterans Affairs.

This table represents all relationships of reviewers with industry and other entities that were reported at the time of peer review, including those not deemed to be relevant to this document, at the time this document was under review. The table does not necessarily reflect relationships with industry at the time of publication. A person is deemed to have a significant interest in a business if the interest represents ownership of 5% of the voting stock or share of the business entity, or ownership of $5,000 of the fair market value of the business entity; or if funds received by the person from the business entity exceed 5% of the person’s gross income for the previous year. Relationships that exist with no financial benefit are also included for the purpose of transparency. Relationships in this table are modest unless otherwise noted. Names are listed in alphabetical order within each category of review. Please refer to http://www.acc.org/ guidelines/about-guidelines-and-clinical-documents/relationships-with-industry-policy for definitions of disclosure categories or additional information about the ACC/AHA Disclosure Policy for Writing Committees. *Detailed reviewer disclosures can be found at this link: http://jaccjacc.acc.org/Clinical_Document/Bradycardia_GL_Comprehensive_Reviewer_RWI.pdf.