User's Manual

Step H: Program the Pulse Generator
1. Check the Programmer Clock and set and synchronize the pulse generator as necessary so that the
proper time appears on printed reports and PRM strip chart recordings.
2. It may be useful to program the Beep During Capacitor Charge feature to On during conversion testing
and implantation to help recognize when the pulse generator is charging to deliver a shock.
3. Perform a manual capacitor re-formation if not already performed.
4. Program the pulse generator appropriately if a lead port(s) is not used.
5. Program the pulse generator to desired parameters appropriate for the patient for conversion testing.
CAUTION: To prevent inappropriate shocks, ensure that the pulse generator’s Tachy Mode is programmed to
Off when not in use and before handling the device. For tachyarrhythmia detection and therapy, verify that the
Tachy Mode is programmed to Monitor + Therapy.
Step I: Test for Ability to Convert Ventricular Fibrillation and Inducible Arrhythmias
After obtaining acceptable signals from the implanted leads, the physician may choose to perform VT and VF
conversion testing to determine (1) if the configuration and position of the implanted leads are appropriate
for the patient and (2) if the pulse generator’s programmed shock energy or maximum-shock energy will
be sufficient to convert arrhythmias reliably and (3) if AGC and RhythmMatch Threshold are programmed
appropriately to detect VF/VT. A conversion test consists of inducing the arrhythmia and then attempting to
convert the arrhythmia with a preselected energy level.
Demonstrating conversion of ventricular fibrillation is suggested before implanting a pulse generator because a
shock delivered during ventricular t achycardia has the potential to accelerate the arrhythmia. Intraoperative
testing may be minimized by performing only VF testing at time of implant and performing VT testing
post-operatively in the electrophysiology lab prior to the patient’s discharge.
60