Single Lead DDD Stimulation: Is It a Real Progress?

Although the benefits of dual (DDD) over single (VVI) chamber pacing have been demonstrated in hemodyamics, exercise capacity, quality of life and reduced complications in patients with atrioventricular block and sick sinus syndrome; a considerable number of such patients still receive single-chamber ventricular pacemakers, mostly because of the lower cost and easier implantation of such pacing systems. An interesting alternative to DDD(R) pacemakers is offered by single lead VDD(R) pacing system, where atrial sensing and ventricular pacing are incorporated in the same lead, which provides the benefits of A-V synchronous pacing with a system as easy to implant as a VVI pacemaker.