What does a low resistance lead indicate?

A low resistance lead indicates that there is a high current drain associated with it, which can lead to potential battery depletion. When the resistance in a pacing lead is low, the energy required to stimulate the heart becomes greater, resulting in the pacemaker drawing more current. This increased current demand can significantly shorten the lifespan of the pacemaker's battery, as it will deplete the battery more quickly compared to leads with higher resistance.

This phenomenon is critical for clinicians to understand when assessing patients with pacemakers, as they must ensure that the leads are functioning properly to avoid excessive battery usage and the need for untimely replacements. In clinical practice, this understanding helps in selecting and monitoring leads to optimize battery life and overall device performance.