“Optimizing” the Anesthetic for Cardiac Contractility Modulation Devices

TL;DR

This case report discusses anesthetic considerations during implantation of a cardiac contractility modulation device to ensure proper function and patient safety.

Contribution

The paper highlights novel anesthetic strategies and device-specific considerations for cardiac contractility modulation device implantation.

Findings

High-dose propofol can cause diaphragm stimulation during CCM device implantation.

Local or conscious sedation is recommended to avoid complications.

Optimizer® activity causes upward deflections on the electrocardiogram during procedures.

Abstract

We present a case report of a patient undergoing implantation of a cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) device. The Optimizer® Smart Implantable Pulse Generator (Impulse Dynamics, Orangeburg, NY, USA) provides electrical energy to the right ventricular septum to modulate cardiac contractility and improve cardiac function in heart failure patients. The non-excitatory electrical signals are delivered by transvenous leads during the refractory period. Anesthetic administration during implantation can affect appropriate lead positioning. Propofol at high doses can attenuate diaphragmatic contraction and discomfort from inappropriate lead positioning, resulting in diaphragm stimulation. Therefore, local or conscious sedation is preferred during CCM device implantation. In patients undergoing procedures with this CCM device in situ, the Optimizer® activity causes upward deflections of the RS segment on the electrocardiogram. Also, strong electromagnetic fields can disrupt device function. This case report reviews the novel CCM device and its major anesthetic considerations.

Figures