Anesthesia and Critical Care Reviews and Commentary (ACCRAC) Podcast Episode 311: Perioperative Management of AICDs and Pacemakers with Mark Nelson
Jun 29, 2025
Dr. Mark Nelson, Chair of the ASA Subcommittee on Cardiac Devices and an associate professor at VCU, shares his insights on managing AICDs and pacemakers in perioperative care. He introduces a practical management aid designed to bridge knowledge gaps for clinicians. The discussion covers the risks of electromagnetic interference, strategies for monitoring pacemaker-dependent patients, and advancements in remote monitoring. Listeners also hear about the latest digital stethoscope technology that enhances diagnostic capabilities.
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Common Knowledge Gaps on Devices
- Mark Nelson realized many clinicians share his challenges understanding various pacemakers and ICDs.
- Comprehensive literature was too complex, prompting a need for a concise, real-time management aid.
Conciseness Ensures Usability
- The management aid must be concise enough to prevent user overwhelm while maintaining safety.
- Excluding critical content risks patient safety; balance is essential.
ASA Practice Aid Explained
- The management aid is an ASA committee product, distinct from formal guidelines or consensus.
- It’s endorsed by ASA and Heart Rhythm Society, ensuring credibility and usability.