User's Manual

Electrocautery and Radio Freque ncy (RF) Ablation
CAUTION: Electrocautery and RF ablation may induce ventricular arrhythmias and/or fibrillation, and may
cause asynchronous pacing, inhibition of pacing, inappropriate shocks, and/or a reduction in pulse generator
pacing output possibly leading to loss of capture. RF ablation may also cause ventricular pacing up to the MTR
and/or changes in pacing thresholds. Additionally, exercis e caution when performing any other type of cardiac
ablation procedure in patients with implanted devices.
If electrocautery or RF ablation is medically necessary, observe the following t o minimize risk to the patient
and device:
• Depending on the pacing needs of the patient, program the Tachy Mode to Electrocautery Protection
Mode or Off.
• Have temporary pacing and external defibrillation equipment available.
• Avoid direct contact between the electrocautery equipment or ablation catheters and the pulse generator
and leads. RF ablation close to the lead electrode may damage the lead-tissue interface.
• Keep the path of the electrical current as far away as possible from the pulse generator and leads.
• If RF ablation and/or electrocautery is performed on tissue near the device or leads, monitor pre- and
post-measurements for sensing and pacing thresholds and impedances to determine the integrity and
stability of the system.
• For electrocautery, use a bipolar electrocautery s yst em where possible and use short, intermittent, and
irregular bursts at the lowest feasible energy levels.
• RF ablation equipment may cause telemetry interference between the pulse generator and PRM. If
device programming changes are necessary during an RF ablation procedure, turn off the RF ablation
equipment before interrogation.
When the procedure is finished, cancel the Electrocautery Protection Mode or program Tachy Mode to Monitor
+ Therapy in order to reactivate the previously programmed therapy modes.
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