Gadgets, Gizmos & The New World of Syncope - Dr. Blair Grubb

In this lecture by Dr. Blair Grubb, presented during the 2015 Dysautonomia International Annual Conference, syncope—defined as a transient loss of consciousness followed by spontaneous recovery—is examined in detail. Dr. Grubb explains that syncope is a significant medical issue, leading to numerous ER visits and hospital admissions annually. The physiological mechanisms of syncope involve the body's response to standing and the displacement of blood due to gravity, which can lead to various symptoms, from tiredness to complete loss of consciousness. A key discussion point is the use of tilt-table testing to diagnose syncope, and the development of technologies like implantable loop recorders and specialized pacemakers to manage patients with severe syncope who often experience injuries due to fainting. Dr. Grubb highlights his research and developments in pacemaker technology aimed at preventing syncopal episodes by addressing severe bradycardia and provides insights into advanced surgical techniques to reduce post-implantation infections.