Permanent Pacemaker at Vamsi Heart Care

Understanding Permanent Pacemakers

A permanent pacemaker is a small electronic device implanted in the chest to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. It uses electrical impulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate and rhythm. Doctors recommend permanent pacemakers for patients with conditions such as bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block, or other arrhythmias that disrupt the heart’s natural pacing.

Why a Permanent Pacemaker is Necessary

Various conditions can necessitate the implantation of a permanent pacemaker, including:

Bradycardia: A condition where the heart beats too slowly, causing dizziness, fatigue, and fainting.

Heart Block: A disorder where the electrical signals that control the heartbeat are partially or completely blocked, leading to irregular heartbeats.

Atrial Fibrillation: An irregular and often rapid heart rate that can lead to poor blood flow and increase the risk of stroke.

Cardiac Arrest Recovery: Patients who have survived a cardiac arrest may need a pacemaker to help regulate their heartbeats.

The Permanent Pacemaker Procedure

Pre-Procedure Assessment: The process begins with a thorough assessment, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and possibly a Holter monitor to analyze the heart’s electrical activity and determine the need for a pacemaker.

Procedure Preparation: You will receive instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including fasting and medication adjustments.

During the Procedure:

Anesthesia: The procedure typically uses local anesthesia to numb the chest area, along with a sedative to help you relax.

Implantation: The surgeon makes a small incision near the collarbone and inserts the pacemaker’s leads (wires) into a vein leading to the heart. Using X-ray imaging, the leads are positioned in the heart’s chambers.

Device Placement: The pacemaker device, which contains the battery and pulse generator, is placed under the skin near the collarbone. The leads are then connected to the device.

Testing: The pacemaker is tested to ensure it functions correctly and is programmed to meet your heart’s specific needs.

Post-Procedure Care: After the procedure, you will stay in the hospital for a day or two for monitoring. Our team will check the pacemaker’s settings and ensure it is working properly.

Recovery and Follow-Up: Recovery from pacemaker implantation involves a period of rest and avoiding strenuous activities. We provide detailed post-procedure care instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the pacemaker and adjust its settings as needed.

Benefits of a Permanent Pacemaker

Improved Heart Rhythm: A pacemaker helps maintain a normal heart rate and rhythm, alleviating symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and fainting.

Enhanced Quality of Life: By regulating your heart rate, a pacemaker allows you to engage in daily activities with more energy and less worry about irregular heartbeats.

Long-Term Solution: Modern pacemakers are durable and reliable, providing consistent support for your heart over many years.