| abstract |
A system for and method of treating a malfunctioning heart is based on hemodynamics, the pressure in the right side of a patient's circulatory system being sensed. A first signal is developed representative of mean right atrial pressure (MRAP) and a second signal is developed representing right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP). When the difference (or ratio) between MRAP and RVSP reaches at least a predetermined value, the combination being an indication of hemodynamic compromise, cardioversion/defibrillation is effected. In these cases, a heart rate criterion, for example a rate over 150 bpm, may also have to be met before cardioverting/defibrillation is initiated. Fixed or variable baselines against which the predetermined value is to be measured may be provided. Other hemodynamic parameters, such as RVDP, RVSP, MRVP and/or MAP could be used as one or another of the hemodynamic parameters. |