Influence of DDD rate response pacing with integrated double sensors on physical efficiency and quality of life

Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of a double sensor gives additional benefits for patients in improving physical efficiency as well as quality of life (QoL) as compared to the accelerometer sensor alone. Methods and results The presented research is a prospective, randomized, single-blind clinical trial. Double-sensor (accelerometer and minute-ventilation) pacemakers (Guidant, Pulsar Max DR) were implanted in 20 patients with sinus node dysfunction (SND) and chronotropic incompetence. After randomization, patients were placed in one of two groups: 1, only the accelerometer sensor was activated; 2, both sensors were activated. After a 3-month follow-up, an initial cardio-pulmonary exercise test was performed, after which the patients were placed in the opposite group for a further 3 months. Finally, the second tests were performed. In 75% of the patients an improvement in QoL was observed in the double-sensor group (P ¼ 0.0242) when compared with the single-sensor group. The addition of a ventilating sensor had no influence on the duration of exercise test (A: 11+ 3.19 vs. B: 11+ 2.92 P ¼ 1.0000). The parameters of cardio-pulmonary exercise tests recorded in situations A and B before exertion, and 6 minutes after exertion were not statistically different. Conclusion The use of double-sensor pacemakers does not improve physical efficiency; however, it does improve QoL.