As a comprehensive center for pacemaker study, the VA Eastern Pacemaker Surveillance Center (EPSC) combines three responsibilities. First, EPSC actively monitors more than 3,500 persons in 28 states by telephone. EPSC also maintains the national VA Pacemaker Registry of over 20,000 patients. Additionally, EPSC is the VA national center for testing explanted pacemakers. The EPSC database is implemented in MUMPS on a PDP 11/44 mini-computer, using the public domain FileMan DBMS. Designed after development of multi-programmable pulse generators and dual chamber pacing, the EPSC database incorporates the expanding range of new pacing parameters. Data is entered interactively by pacemaker technicians. EPSC capabilities include a linked on-site Marquette MUSE D-300 computer system which analyzes and stores standard-lead ECGs, clinically-recorded pacemaker pulse waveforms and telephoned rhythm tracings. Comprehensive EPSC services include augmented monitoring of veterans with pacemakers and leads involved in advisory bulletins or recalls.
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