[Old and new methods for control of pacemakers (author's transl)].

First there is a description of present methods available for controlling the functioning of pacemakers, most of which are already being used in traditional clinic-electronic control. There follows a presentation of telephone monitoring (ECG + Pacing Rate) and its limits so far as photoanalysis is concerned. Mention is made of the new italian system of telephone monitoring which also includes measurement of amplitude and width of the pulse. Personal experience of the diagnostic value of photoanalysis is given. This concords with others as to its necessity to detect any failure from circuitry defects or from breakage or insulation of electrode. In conclusion the hope is expressed of actuating a completely trustworthy control system which includes a high degree of foreseeing failure (telephone monitoring) and diagnostic value (Rx + photoanalysis). At last the advantages of an automatic follow-up system in a pacemaker patient clinic are discussed.