I have had my pm since 03 and my new EP dr, when I had my EP study in April, said that he did not know why the SBR setting had never been set up in my pacer, given the fact that I have been complaining of syncope ever since I got it. He turned that feature on, and MAN do I feel so much better!!!! I am really upset my last EP didnt know to do that. But I am grateful my new one has some sense. I havent been having any syncopal or near syncopal events since he changed it.

Sudden Brady Response: Designed to respond to a sudden drop in heart rate that can occur with neurocardiogenic syncope. Responds to a patients sudden drop in atrial rates by applying dual chamber pacing at an elevated rate.

Just thought I would share this in case anyone else has this problem.
Debbi

 

 

Just wondering if the SBR setting is the same as the rate response feature on a pacemaker?

I've never heard of the SBR setting. I have a Medtronic pacemaker, perhaps you have another brand?

Anyone know?

Pookie

 

From the description it sounds like the SBR feature is the same as Rate Drop Response on other pacemakers. Rate response attempts to set an appropriate HR based on activity level. Rate Drop Response only kicks in when there is a sudden drop in HR, which in some people results in a drop in blood pressure and fainting.
Debbi's experience is a good example of how helpful these special features can be when they are needed. Like any med or procedure they can also be a real problem if they are used when they aren't needed.
Thanks for the information.

frank

 

Yes, SBR and RDR are the way two different companies attack the same issue, which is how the PM should react to a sudden drop in heart rate (as in vasovagal syncope). Unfortunately, we manufacturers don't play well together in the sandbox, and will trademark these names and the algorithms that allow them to work. When one company comes up with something useful, the others have to 'tweak' it a bit do avoid patent infringement.

Debbi's story is a sad example of what can happen when people don't take the time to truly customize the device to the patient. Turning every bell and whistle on can cause just as many problems as turning none of them on, you have to think about the patient and whether he or she needs this feature or not. Debbi, I'm glad somebody took the time to get it right!