A pacemaker is a small electronic device that is placed in your chest, just below the collarbone, to regulate your abnormal heart rate. A pacemaker surgery is often recommended to ensure that the heartbeat does not slow to a dangerously low rate.
Problems with the heart rhythm, be it too slow or too fast, may cause difficulties because the heart is unable to pump an adequate amount of blood to the body. For instance, if the heart rate is too slow, the blood is pumped too slowly and if the heart rate is too fast or too irregular, the heart chambers are unable to fill up with enough blood to pump out with each beat. When the body does not receive enough blood, symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, fainting, and/or chest pain may occur.
Common heart rate and rhythm problems for which a heart pacemaker surgery might be recommended include heart blockage, Tachy-brady syndrome and Bradycardia, a condition when the sinus node causes the heart to beat too slowly. When a person’s heartbeat is irregular or too low, a pacemaker will indicate to the heart to beat. However, there may be other reasons or conditions for your doctor to recommend a pacemaker surgery.
The pacemaker has a small metal case, electronic circuitry with a tiny computer and the battery that regulates impulses signaled to the heart.
At Felix Hospital, we have a team of dedicated cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who provide comprehensive heart care tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients. They are committed to delivering the highest quality of care through advanced diagnostic techniques, innovative treatments, and compassionate support.
Before implanting a pacemaker, several diagnostic tests are performed to assess heart function and confirm the need for the device. These include:
During the heart pacemaker surgery, you would be given sedative medication via an intravenous drip. This will allow you to sleep through the procedure. The surgeon will insert a sheath into a blood vessel, usually under the collarbone. The sheath is basically a plastic tube through which the pacer lead wire will be inserted into the blood vessel and advanced into the heart.
Once the lead wire is inside the heart, the surgeon will ensure that the placement is correct and that it works. Fluoroscopy, a special type of x-ray, will help the surgeon determine the placing of the pacemaker. The pacemaker generator will be slipped under your skin on the side of your body. Your electrocardiogram (ECG) will be observed to ensure that the pacer is working correctly.
Our cardiologists may take care of some key considerations in preparing a patient for the pacemaker implant. They will explain the procedure and will ensure to take the patient’s personal and family medical history into consideration. They will assess the patient's overall health, besides cardiac health, and potential risks.
During the pre-op assessment, the patient may have to undergo general check-up, lab, diagnostic and imaging tests, to ensure if the patient is fit for the procedure.
Based on the patient's general health, the surgeon may start or stop certain medications before the procedure. Besides, they will be advised to limit their alcohol intake and quit smoking before the procedure, since it can interfere with healing.
After the completion of the implant, you will be moved to the recovery suite where your vital signs will be closely monitored. The insertion site may be painful, but the pain won’t last. Pain medication may be administered if needed. Once your heart rate and blood pressure are regulated and are found within normal range you may be discharged from the hospital.
You should arrange to have someone drive you home from the hospital following your procedure. You’ll also receive information about your pacemaker, when it was placed, its settings, etc.
At Felix Hospital, we provide personalized cardiac rehabilitation to help patients recover from the procedure and get back to everyday life as quickly as possible. For two to three weeks after surgery, patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, or causing pressure where pacemaker was implanted, and not to lift the arm on the side of the pacemaker above the shoulder for several weeks. Once your doctor gives consent, you are encouraged to do some light exercises to lead a healthy lifestyle. This helps protect the heart and reduce the risk of further heart-related problems.
Your pacemaker should be checked periodically to assess the battery and find out how the wires are working. Be sure to keep your pacemaker checkup appointments. It’s usually every six months or one year. Pacemaker batteries usually last 10 to 15 years.
Why Choose Felix Hospital for Pacemaker Implantation?
Felix Hospital provides state-of-the-art facilities catering to the entire spectrum of cardiac care, ranging from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation.
