User's Manual

Induce the Patient’s Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia can be induced by using the induction features of the pulse generator.
Allow the patient’s blood pressure and electrophysiologic status t o return to baseline between arrhythmia
inductions, whether successful or unsuccessful. It is also suggested to allow a minimum of one minute between
inductions.
During each arrhythmia induction, note the heart rate to determine the appropriate rate threshold values.
Ventricular c ycle lengths that occur close to but below the lowest programmed rate threshold value may be
detected as normal sinus rhythm. To provide sufficient opportunity for detection, the rate threshold value(s)
should be programmed at least 10 bpm below the rate of the arrhythmia(s) that is to be treated.
Perform the Induction
1. Insert the pulse generator into the implantation pocket. Temporarily close the pocket enough to ensure
that the pulse generator will remain in position during conversion testing. Make sure the pulse generator
has good contact with surrounding tissue; flush t he pocket with saline solution, if necessary, to avoid a
dry pocket.
CAUTION: Do not allow any object that is electrically conductive to come into contact with the lead or
device during induction because it may shunt energy, resulting in less energy getting to the patient, and may
damage the implanted system.
2. Verify magnet function and telemetry to ensure the pulse generator is within acceptable range.
3. Program the appropriate parameters and change the pulse generator Tachy Mode to Monitor + Therapy.
4. Perform the induction using the programmer.
Determine DFT
Defibrillation threshold (DFT) testing should be performed at implant to ensure adequate safety margins for the
shock energy (safety margin = device maximum shocking energy minus DFT). The DFT is the minimum energy
tested that reliably converts VF or polymorphic VT in a series of arrhythmia trials w ith decreasing energy steps.
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