Pacing-induced cardiomyopathy

**Definition:** Pacing-induced cardiomyopathy is ventricular dilation, dysfunction (systolic and/or diastolic) and dyskinesia associated with chronic ventricular pacing in the absence of other causes of cardiomyopathy.

**Long definition:** During ventricular pacing, the electric impulse is thought to be transmitted through non-Purkinje fibers, disrupting normal systolic fiber shortening, perfusion, and oxygen consumption. An asynchronous and abnormal sequence of activation leads to abnormal left ventricular systolic and diastolic function.