Pacemaker Codes

Pacemaker codes are short hand that describes the functioning and programmable features of a pacemaker. They are a series of up to five letters denoting function.

Using the chart below, for instance, a pacemaker described as DDDR would be a dual-chamber paced, dual-chamber sensed, dual response, rate modulated pacemaker

Chambers paced – 1st position	Chambers sensed-2nd position	Response modes-3rd position	Programmable functions -4th position	Anti-tachycardia function – 5th position
V = ventricle	V = ventricle	T = triggered	R = rate  modulated	P = paced
A = atrium	A = atrium	I = inhibited	C = communicating	S = shocks
D = dual	D = dual	D = dual (triggered/inhibited)	M = multiprogrammable	D = dual (paced and shocks)
O = none	O = none	O = none	P = simple programmable	O = none
————	————	———-	O = none	————-

The one exception to the above pacemaker  nomenclature is the DVIC mode variation, which does not conform to the NBG identification code listed above.

When dealing with a patient with an implantable device, a notation in the chart should always be made regarding the pacemaker codes. If the pacemaker codes are not known, prompt consultation with a cardiologists is warranted.