Substantial data have been accumulated and indications have been well delineated for pacemaker implantation in the treatment of sinus node dysfunction and heart block. However, many other indications have been proposed for pacemaker implantation. In this review, the authors examine available data regarding pacemaker implantation for new indications: neurally mediated syncope, hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, prevention of atrial fibrillation, and the relative merits of single-chamber and dual-chamber pacemakers.
