Is current in a pacemaker programmable?

In a pacemaker, the current used to stimulate the heart is not directly programmable. Instead, the device operates based on preset parameters that control the output current as a function of the selected pacing modes and thresholds.

The pacemaker detects the heart's electrical activity and adjusts its operations according to the specific needs dictated by the physiological conditions of the patient. While adjustments can be made to settings like pacing rate, output voltage, and impedance, the actual current delivered during pacing is typically a function of the programmed voltage and the impedance of the pacing lead and myocardial tissue, rather than a direct input of current.

It is also essential to recognize that while clinicians have the ability to modify certain settings within the pacemaker through programming tools, they are generally limited by the inherent characteristics of the device and the thresholds established during initial testing. Thus, while aspects of the pacing function can be programmed, the current itself is not a directly programmable variable.