SAVE PACE Study: Search AV Extension for Promoting Atrioventricular Conduction

Study of:
Search Atrioventricular (Search AV) algorithm feature that is designed into the latest generation of Medtronic 700 and 900 series pacemakers

Recent research has demonstrated a significant benefit in allowing the heart’s inherent conduction system to function on its own and to not pace the heart’s ventricle when it is not necessary.

This study’s purpose is to test the Search Atrioventricular (Search AV) algorithm feature that is designed into the latest generation of Medtronic 700 and 900 series pacemakers. This feature is intended to allow the hearts internal conduction system to function on its own (to a programmable limit) and thus minimize undesirable ventricular pacing. Patients who qualify for this study will be randomly enrolled into one of two groups. One group will have this feature programmed on and the other group will have it programmed off. The data generated from this study will allow for determination as to whether this feature functions as intended. Theoretically this will be demonstrated by lower percentages of ventricular pacing occur in the group with the feature enabled. Patients may receive benefit from this feature as they may have less unnecessary pacing of the ventricle and possibly a lower incidence of persistent atrial fibrillation.

Charles C. Gornick, MD, FACC

Adrian K. Almquist, MD, FACC

Durand E. Burns, MD, FACC

Chuen Tang, MD, FACC

Karen S. Meyer, RN, CCRC

For more information about the electrophysiology research program at the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation please call Karen Meyer, RN at 612-863-5855.