Pacemakers
Cardiac stimulation
Pacemakers are miniaturized computers which monitor your heart's natural beat. If necessary they will send out an extra stimulation generating an electric impulse which makes up for your heart's deficiency. Cardiac stimulation by pacemaker implantation involves the following :
1) Pacemaker (pulse generator)
This consists of a electronic circuit which monitors, analyses and records each heart beat and, if necessary, delivers impulses which regulate the heart's activity. It contains a lithium battery which supplies the electricity.
2) Either one or two leads
These leads carry electrical impulses to the heart. The leads are made from fine flexible insulated wire and link the pulse generator to the heart chambers.
The memories contained in the pacemaker keep a continuous record of the heart's activity. From this our doctors are able to tell how your heart and your pacemaker have been performing and are able to gain useful information for the continuation of your treatment.
It is possible to "communicate" with the pacemaker using a device known as a programmer. In this way your pacemaker's settings can be adjusted painlessly without the need for surgery.
A pacemaker may function in one of the following ways:
Single chamber stimulation:
One lead, going into the right atrium or right ventricle.
Dual chamber stimulation:
One lead going into the right atrium and one into the right ventricle.
Rate responsive stimulation:
The pacemaker detects when you are exercising and delivers more frequent stimulation to keep up with the exercise.
How the pacemaker is implanted
Implantation of a pacemaker is a quick and simple operation. It can take place in hospital either under general or local anesthetic.
First the lead is introduced into a vein in the area beneath the collarbone and is advanced to the heart (atrium or ventricle). A series of electric measurements are carried out to ensure that the lead in correctly inserted.
The pacemaker is then connected to the lead(s) and inserted, usually just below the collarbone. Your doctor will determine where to implant the pacemaker depending on your body shape and lifestyle. The incision is sewn closed and covered with a dressing.
After implantation
When your pacemaker has been implanted you will be given an identification card for your pacemaker which gives details of the type of pacemaker and leads you have.
Keep the card with you at all times - the information it contains is important.
When you have fully recovered from the operation, you should soon be able to return to your normal daily activities and the pacemaker should not interfere with this.
Regular medical check-ups
Regular appointments will be arranged with your doctor. These visits are necessary to check your pacemaker and adjust its settings if your condition changes. Your doctor will be able to tell when your pacemaker needs replacement. There is no need to worry about this as the batteries used in modern pacemakers function for years and run down very gradually.
Most medical treatments do not harm pacemakers. However, some treatments can affect their functioning.
If you consult a doctor, dentist, physical therapist or any other health professional, always tell them that you have a pacemaker even if the reason for your visit is unrelated.