A pacemaker is a small electronic device that helps regulate your heartbeat when it becomes too slow or irregular. It works by sending electrical signals to your heart to maintain a steady rhythm.
There are several types of pacemakers, and your doctor will choose the one that best suits your condition:
Each pacemaker (except the leadless pacemaker) includes a pulse generator (battery) under the skin and one or more leads (wires) that deliver impulses to the heart.
Once implanted, your pacemaker will be programmed to your needs. It will monitor your heart and activate only when your heart rate drops below a set level which is also programmable.
You will usually stay in hospital overnight for monitoring. After discharge:
You will be given a pacemaker ID card and instructions for living with the device, including precautions around strong magnets and medical imaging.
Always inform healthcare providers that you have a pacemaker, especially before procedures like MRIs.
Your cardiologist will make a small incision below your collarbone and guide the leads through a vein into your heart using X-ray imaging. Once the leads are in place, they are connected to the pulse generator, which is positioned under the skin.
The system is tested to ensure it is working correctly, and the incision is closed with dissolving stitches.
