Medtronic
 
 

Tachyarrhythmia
Management

Effective Patient Management

Patient Alert

This unique self-monitoring safety feature was introduced in the GEM and GEM DR devices. Available only on Medtronic ICDs, the feature tests the entire system continuously for five predetermined conditions:

  • Lead Impedance out of Range (pacing and defibrillation leads)
  • Low Battery Voltage
  • Excessive Charge Time
  • Number of Shocks Delivered in an Episode
  • All Therapies in a Zone Exhausted for an Episode

If any parameter is out of range, a programmable tone will notify the patient to seek follow-up care (see chart). The tone will sound only at the time of day selected by the clinician.

Description of Audible Tones
Tone Type of Tone Action
High Urgency Dual Tones
(alternating high/low frequency for 30 seconds)		 Call physician. Immediate action
Low Urgency Intermittent Tones
(alternating high frequency/silence for 30 seconds)		 Call physician. Action may be delayed a short time
Alarm OK
(Non-programmable. Initiated only by magnet.)		 Continuous Tone
(high frequency for 30 seconds)		 No conditions met. No action required.

Painless Impedance Testing

Painless lead impedance testing feature was introduced in the GEM devices. This daily check of the pacing and defibrillation lead system is automatic and does not require programming.

Measurements are taken via painless, subthreshold pulses that do not capture the heart — eliminating the need to perform painful, high-voltage testing at follow-up appointments.

Rate-Responsive Bradycardia Pacing

The GEM II family's pacing capability is based on proven technology. The GEM II DR provides an upper tracking rate limit of 150 ppm and an upper sensor rate of 130 ppm. The GEM II VR offers an upper sensor rate of 150 ppm.

In addition, the Ventricular Rate Stabilization feature gradually smoothes the rate between premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) and subsequent events until the patient's intrinsic rate breaks through. This unique function is designed to eliminate the long pause that typically follows a PVC, and thereby prevent "short-long-short" sequences.

Additional Information

  • Cardiac Compass™ simplifies patient management. Request Case Study and Technical Tip Cards