FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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HOW IS A PACEMAKER IMPLANTED?
A pacemaker is typically implanted beneath the skin through a small incision below the collarbone. Pacemaker leads are then threaded through a vein to the heart, where they touch the heart’s lining. These wires allow the pacemaker to sense the heartbeat and stimulate the heart to beat if it is too slow. The procedure is done with sedation and local anesthetic. Depending on the situation, you may be able to go home the same day or may need to stay overnight.
Let’s review the implantation procedure so you will know what to expect.
Before the implantation, your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your heart condition and overall health. You may undergo various tests, including electrocardiograms and echocardiograms. Your doctor will also review your medications and may advise you to stop taking certain drugs temporarily. It’s crucial to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.
Pacemaker implantation is usually performed under local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but sedated during the procedure. The surgery typically takes one to two hours. Your surgeon will make a small incision, usually just below the collarbone on the left side of the chest. Through this incision, they’ll create a small pocket under the skin to house the pacemaker device.
The next step involves guiding thin, flexible wires called leads through a vein and into your heart. The number of leads used depends on your specific heart condition and the type of pacemaker being implanted. Your surgeon will use X-ray imaging to ensure the leads are correctly positioned within your heart chambers.
Once the leads are in place, they’re connected to the pacemaker device. Your surgeon will then test the system to confirm it’s functioning correctly. This may involve adjusting the pacemaker settings to ensure it’s providing the right amount of electrical stimulation to your heart. After testing, the device is inserted into the pocket created earlier, and the incision is closed with sutures.
Following the implantation, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and the pacemaker’s performance. Most patients stay in the hospital for a day or two after the procedure, allowing for close observation and any necessary adjustments to the pacemaker settings.
As you recover, your medical team will provide instructions on caring for the incision site, managing pain, and gradually returning to your normal activities. You’ll also receive guidance on living with your pacemaker, including precautions to take and signs that might indicate a problem.
Regular follow-up appointments are essential to ensure your pacemaker continues to function optimally. These check-ups allow your doctor to monitor the device’s battery life, adjust settings if necessary, and address any concerns you have.
Trust your heart health to CVG’s twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools, a wealth of experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.
You can review our cardiologists’ pages and explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to providing quality care. You can trust that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything they can to ensure you have the best quality of life possible.
To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.