Electronic (telemetric) control of the pacemaker (PM) or defibrillator (ICD) occurs periodically, usually once or twice a year. Additional checks are performed when the battery is approaching the discharge phase or when a malfunction of the device is suspected. The test lasts about 10 minutes, is non-invasive and asymptomatic. Today, with special communicators, it can be performed “remotely” from the patient's home.

What is it for and when is it done?

Through an external probe that is placed on the patient's chest and connected to a special PC (called programmer), it is possible to control the implanted device and analyze the data stored in its memory, in order to verify the actual functioning of the device, the charge status and the presence of arrhythmias. At each check-up, an inspection of the pacemaker/defibrillator pocket is also performed in order to detect disorders such as pocket decubitus, infections, hematomas, etc.

Device monitoring serves to confirm the programmed parameters, their customization on the patient and to have confirmation of the moment in which the generator must be replaced or to record possible malfunctions of the device and catheters that, in some cases, can be corrected by electronic reprogramming. In addition, electronic control also provides useful information to optimize the clinical management of the patient.