Decreasing pacemaker electrode tip size results in:

A. Lower pacing thresholds.

DISCUSSION: Decreasing pacemaker electrode tip size results in lower pacing thresholds, both at the time of implant and subsequently, because of higher current density. However, better sensing function is directly related to electrode area and is adversely affected by small electrode size. Therefore, a compromise between pacing and sensing efficiency is required. Typical electrode surface areas for pacing are between 8 and 10 sq. mm.