System and method for preventing sudden heart rate drop using implantable cardiac pacing device

摘要

A rate smoothing technique is applied by the pacing device to sensed and paced heart signals so as to prevent a sharp drop in heart rate, particularly for use within patients prone to vasovagal syncope. The rate smoothing technique is applied by the pacing device during the calculation of an escape interval employed by the device in determining whether to pace the heart. The rate smoothing technique has the effect of adjusting the escape interval to ensure the heart is paced for a period of time subsequent to a sharp drop in the natural heart rate of the patient permitting the heart rate to decrease gradually rather than suddenly. The rate smoothing technique however does not interfere with a sharp increase in heart rate as may be required during sudden physical exertion. System and method examples are described herein.