A retrospective study of the indications for temporary transvenous pacing in the University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, from 1971 to 1979 is reviewed. There were 111 patients. The main indications for temporary transvenous pacing were, namely,complete heart block (57%), sick sinus syndrome (24%), Mobitz type 11 block (5%) and bifascicularblock (3%).
Electrical or electrocution injury is a common accidental occurrence and mostly workplace related. Fatal arrhythmias, skin injury and sudden death may ensue. However, it is rare for electrocution to result in permanent low rate sinus bradycardia, incompatible with an active lifestyle. The probable mechanisms for this pathological sinus bradycardia are sinus node dysfunction and autonomic dysfunction with vagal predominance. We describe a young patient who suffered a non fatal electrocution with resultant low rate sinus bradycardia and its successful treatment with a dual chamber rate responsive pacemaker.