Key result
Bipolar electrodes are linked to ~10% higher electrogram amplitudes and lower thresholds than unipolar systems.
Why the study?
The comparative electrophysiological properties of unipolar versus bipolar electrode systems in a new permanent endocardial lead were not well characterized.
Does a bipolar electrode system configuration improve electrogram amplitudes and stimulation thresholds compared to a unipolar configuration in patients receiving a new endocardial electrode?
Observational (n=15)
Does a bipolar electrode system configuration improve electrogram amplitudes and stimulation thresholds compared to a unipolar configuration in patients receiving a new endocardial electrode?
Absolute Event Rate: 11.1% vs 10.1%
p-value: p=0.05
The bipolar electrode system demonstrates comparable or superior electrophysiological properties for ventricular sensing and pacing compared to the unipolar system.
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Bipolar sensing may be preferable for amplitude in select leads; leaves open optimal configuration for modern devices.
Sloman et al. (1982) conducted an observational in Patients requiring permanent endocardial pacing (n=15). Bipolar electrode system vs. Unipolar electrode system was evaluated on Mean electrogram amplitude (p=0.05). The bipolar electrode system demonstrated significantly higher mean electrogram amplitude (11.1 mV vs 10.1 mV, p=0.05) and lower current threshold (0.59 mA vs 0.65 mA, p<0.05) than the unipolar system.
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