What is Biventricular Pacing?

Biventricular pacing with an implantable cardiac device (ICD) helps to synchronize contractions of the left and right ventricles, reduces mitral valve regurgitation, and decreases septal wall motion. Biventricular pacing, works similar to standard pacemakers. Standard pacemakers have two right heart stimulation leads, the biventricular pacemaker has a third lead, which goes through a vein in the back of the heart wall. Biventricular pacing simultaneously stimulates the heart's upper and lower chambers, providing timed electrical impulses.

The right ventricle or pumping chamber of the heart can be simulated through the use of a biventricular assist device (BIVAD). This device works similarly to an LVAD, but connects the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.