Pacemaker
About this test
A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that prevents the heart from beating too slowly. You need surgery to get a pacemaker. The device is placed under the skin near the collarbone. A pacemaker also is called a cardiac pacing device. There are different types of pacemakers.
Why it's done
A pacemaker is used to control or increase the heartbeat. It stimulates the heart as needed to keep it beating regularly. The heart's electrical system typically controls the heartbeat. Electrical signals, called impulses, move through the heart chambers. They tell the heart when to beat. Changes in heart signaling may happen if the heart muscle is damaged. Heart signaling problems also may be caused by changes in genes before birth or by using certain medicines. You may need a pacemaker if: You have a slow or irregular heartbeat that lasts for a long time, also called chronic. You have heart failure. A pacemaker only works when it senses trouble with the heartbeat. For example, if the heart beats too slowly, the pacemaker sends electrical signals to correct the beat. Some pacemakers can increase the heartbeat as needed, such as during exercise. A pacemaker may have two parts: Pulse generator. This small metal box has a battery and electrical parts. It controls the rate of electrical signals sent to the heart. Leads. These are flexible, insulated wires. One to three wires are placed in one or more of the heart's chambers. The wires send the electrical signals needed to correct an irregular heartbeat. Some newer pacemakers don't need leads. These devices are called leadless pacemakers.
Risks and complications
Possible complications of a pacemaker device or its surgery may include: Infection near the site in the heart where the device is placed. Swelling, bruising or bleeding, especially if you take blood thinners. Blood clots near where the device is placed. Damage to blood vessels or nerves. Collapsed lung. Blood in the space between the lung and the chest wall. Moving or shifting of the device or leads, which could cause a hole in the heart. This complication is rare.
How to prepare
Several tests are done to determine if a pacemaker is right for you. These tests may include: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). This quick and painless test checks the heart's electrical activity. An ECG shows how the heart is beating. Some personal devices, such as smartwatches, can check the heartbeat. Ask a member of your health care team if this is an option for you. Holter monitor. This portable device is worn for a day or more to record the heart's rate and rhythm during daily activities. It may be done if an ECG doesn't provide enough details about a heart problem. A Holter monitor may be able to see irregular heart rhythms that an ECG missed. Echocardiogram. An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create pictures of the beating heart. It shows how blood flows through the heart and heart valves. Stress or exercise tests. These tests often involve walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while the heart's rate and rhythm are watched. Exercise tests show how the heart responds to physical activity. Sometimes, a stress test is done with other imaging tests, such as an echocardiogram.
Understanding your results
A pacemaker should improve symptoms caused by a slow heartbeat, such as extreme tiredness, lightheadedness and fainting. Most modern pacemakers automatically change the speed of the heartbeat to match the level of physical activity. A pacemaker may let you have a more active lifestyle. Regular health checkups are recommended after getting a pacemaker. Ask your health care team how often you need to go into a medical office for such checkups. Tell your health care team if you gain weight, if your legs or ankles get puffy, or if you faint or get dizzy. A health care professional should check your pacemaker every 3 to 6 months. Most pacemakers can be checked remotely. This means you don't have to go into a medical office for the checkup. A pacemaker sends information about the device and your heart electronically to your doctor's office. A pacemaker's battery typically lasts 5 to 15 years. When the battery stops working, you'll need surgery to replace it. The surgery to change a pacemaker's battery is often quicker than the first surgery to place the device. You also should have a quicker recovery.
Disclaimer: August is a health information platform and its responses don't constitute medical advise. Always consult with a licenced medical professional near you before making any changes.