What describes passive fixation in lead positioning?

Passive fixation in lead positioning refers to a method where the lead is secured within the heart's tissue primarily by its anatomical placement rather than mechanical anchorage. This approach often takes advantage of the natural anatomy of the heart, such as the trabecular meshwork found in the apex of the ventricular walls, to help stabilize the lead once it is inserted.

In this context, passive fixation does not involve active components like screws, which are typically associated with active fixation methods. Instead, the lead becomes lodged in the trabeculae, allowing it to maintain its position due to the surrounding cardiac structures without necessitating complex mechanical adjustments. This principle is valuable as it simplifies the insertion technique and reduces the need for additional hardware, which can be beneficial in certain clinical scenarios.

Other options like the use of screws for anchoring indicate a more active fixation method, which involves intentional mechanical securing of the lead to ensure it's held firmly in place against cardiac motions. While active adjustments during surgery might improve lead placement, they do not pertain to passive fixation methodologies. Moreover, while implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) devices can utilize various lead fixation methods, passive fixation is not exclusive to ICDs; it can also be used in other types of