Contraindication, Complications Lack of Efficacy

Abstract

Patients with an implanted demand-type pacemaker must not be subjected to this type of therapy since the short impulses will be regarded as a heart action by the pacemaker and it will quit functioning. Only if electrode positions are far away from the site of implant may an attempt be made to use electric nerve blocking as explained here; however, continuous monitoring of the electrocardiogram by a registered nurse/trained health care provider is required. The attendant should turn off the stimulation unit if at least two pacemaker complexes fail to show on the ECG. If the action of the pacemaker is continuing, as e.g. in the patient of fig. 18 (part of a continous recording), therapy may continue under the conditions of monitoring and supervision as indicated.