Transvenous pacing

Transvenous Pacing

Transvenous pacing (pronunciation: trans-vee-nus pacing) is a medical procedure used to control the heart's rhythm.

Etymology

The term "transvenous pacing" is derived from the Latin words "trans" meaning across, "vena" meaning vein, and the English word "pacing".

Definition

Transvenous pacing is a type of Cardiac pacing that involves the insertion of a pacing wire into a vein, usually the subclavian or internal jugular vein, and then advancing it into the right ventricle of the heart. This procedure is typically performed in emergency situations when there is a significant bradycardia or heart block.

Procedure

The procedure begins with the insertion of a needle into a vein, usually the subclavian or internal jugular vein. A guide wire is then passed through the needle into the vein. The needle is removed, and a sheath is passed over the guide wire into the vein. The pacing wire is then passed through the sheath and guided into the right ventricle of the heart. The other end of the pacing wire is connected to an external pacing device, which sends electrical impulses to the heart to regulate its rhythm.

Related Terms

Bradycardia: A slower than normal heart rate.
Heart Block: A condition where the electrical signals in the heart are delayed or blocked.
Subclavian Vein: A vein located in the chest that is often used for the insertion of a pacing wire.
Internal Jugular Vein: A vein located in the neck that is also often used for the insertion of a pacing wire.
Right Ventricle: One of the four chambers of the heart. The pacing wire is typically guided into this chamber during a transvenous pacing procedure.
Cardiac Pacing: A procedure that uses electrical impulses to regulate the heart's rhythm.