Regeneration of pacemaker battery after explantation.

In an effort to evaluate changes in voltage output of a pulse generator after explantation, the output of 33 pulse generators was measured at the time of explant and following 3 days of rest (not pacing). Twenty generators were removed secondary to elective replacement indicators (ERI) and 13 for other causes. The output of ERI generators significantly increased, from 2.62 volts at explant, to 3.17 volts, 3 days later. The non-ERI generators on the other hand, showed no significant change in their output. These observations are important when dealing with battery depletion.