Getting a Pacemaker Implanted The procedure to implant a pacemaker does not require open heart surgery, and most people go home within 24 hours. A small incision, approximately 5 cm long, is made in the upper chest. A lead thin insulated wire, like a spaghetti noodle is guided through the vein into the heart. Your doctor connects the lead to the pacemaker and programs the device. The pacemaker is then inserted beneath the skin. Your doctor tests the pacemaker to ensure it is working properly.
The incision is then closed. During the procedure, the doctor may also elect to replace one or more of the leads that deliver electrical impulses to the heart. In general, replacement procedures take less time than initial pacemaker implantation. No matter how well your pacemaker is working, the most important factor in its continued success is you.
A heart-healthy lifestyle will provide your heart with optimal conditions for good health, and will allow the pacemaker to have its maximum beneficial effect.
Talk to your doctor about the following:. As always, you should have good communication with your doctor and your medical team. Ask all of your questions.
To help you get started, we have gathered answers to many of the questions that are often asked about pacemakers. To review them, click here. Find an Interventional Cardiologist. Heart Condition Centers. If you and your doctor decide that a pacemaker is the right treatment for your condition, your care team will explain how the small, battery-powered device will be implanted under your skin and how it will work to monitor your heart rate and send electrical signals to your heart.
Learn more about how an EKG works here. Learn more about stress tests here. Echocardiogram : This test uses sound waves to create a moving picture of your heart. Learn more about how an echocardiogram works here. Holter Monitoring : Your doctor may recommend that you wear a device for several hours or up to 2 days as you go about your regular routine. Learn more about Holter monitoring here.
How a Pacemaker Is Implanted Pacemaker implantation procedures are performed in a hospital and may take several hours. After Your Pacemaker Implantation Procedure Your electrophysiologist will provide recommendations concerning your activities following implantation of the pacemaker. Wearing a Medical ID Bracelet or Necklace After you receive your pacemaker, your medical team may recommend that you wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace to let emergency personnel and other healthcare providers know that you have a pacemaker.
Monitoring Your Pacemaker You should also have regular check-ups with your medical team so that they can monitor your health and the condition of your pacemaker. Life with Your Pacemaker No matter how well your pacemaker is working, the most important factor in its continued success is you. You may also need one if a medication overdose temporarily slowed your heart. Every medical procedure has some risks. Most risks associated with a pacemaker are a result of the implantation procedure.
These include:. This can happen if:. If your pacemaker malfunctions, you may notice that your arrhythmia or heart failure symptoms begin to get worse. These tests can ensure that a pacemaker is the right choice for you.
They include:. Your doctor or cardiologist will review the results of these tests as well as your medical history to determine if a pacemaker is a good option for you. For example, a pacemaker may not be recommended if an arrhythmia is asymptomatic or happens with only mild symptoms. Important factors to consider include:. Your doctor will give you complete, specific instructions on how to prepare.
Be sure to follow all preparation instructions carefully. Most wired pacemakers are implanted using a transvenous procedure. This means that the leads and electrodes are threaded through your veins and into your heart. Veins in the neck, chest, or thigh are typically used.
Placing a pacemaker this way typically takes about 1 hour. However, this may vary depending on the number of leads. For example, placing a biventricular pacemaker, which has three leads, will often take longer than placing a single-lead pacemaker. Your surgeon will let you know what to expect. A less common way for a pacemaker to be implanted is through the epicardial method.
This is where the electrodes are attached at the surface of the heart as opposed to inside the heart. It requires general anesthesia. Some examples of when epicardial placement is done include:. Wireless pacemakers are placed using a thin tube called a catheter. An X-ray machine is used to guide the catheter and wireless pacemaker through a vein in your thigh to your heart. This procedure typically takes less than 1 hour.
In some situations, you may be able to return home the same day. Your doctor can reprogram the device as needed at follow-up appointments. You may need to take over-the-counter medications to alleviate this.
Ask your doctors which pain relievers are safest for you. Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to clean the wound and prevent infection. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing during your recovery to avoid irritating the area. However, you should continue to avoid any rigorous exercise or heavy lifting for about 4 to 6 weeks , especially lifting the arm on the side of the pacemaker overhead.
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