Pacemakers, Defibrillators & Bi-Ventriculars
These life-saving devices help manage abnormal heart rhythms and improve heart function by preventing sudden cardiac arrest.
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Pacemakers, Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) & Bi-Ventricular devices are life-saving devices that are used to treat people with electrical conduction abnormalities and weak pumping functions of the heart.
What are Pacemakers, Defibrillators & Bi-Ventriculars?
Why is the Procedure Performed?
These devices are implanted to manage various cardiac conditions:
Pacemakers are used to treat arrhythmias that cause the heart to beat too slowly, leading to symptoms like fatigue, fainting, or dizziness.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) are used in patients at risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation.
Bi-Ventricular Devices are used to treat patients with heart failure whose hearts' chambers do not beat in sync.
How is the Procedure Performed?
The implantation of an Implantable Cardiac Monitor (ICM) is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. Here is a brief overview of the steps involved:
Preparation: Procedure is performed under sedation, as determined by your physician.
Incision: A small incision made near the collarbone.
Implantation:
The device is placed under the skin.
Thin wires (leads) are threaded through a vein to the heart.
X-ray imaging is used to guide the leads into the correct position.
The device’s settings are tested and adjusted to ensure it works properly.
Closure: The incision is closed once everything is in place and functioning correctly.
What are the Risks and Benefits?
Benefits
Improved quality of life and decreased symptoms of arrhythmia or heart failure.
Reduced risk of sudden cardiac death in the case of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs).
Enhanced ability of the heart to pump blood efficiently (in the case of Bi-Ventricular devices).
Risks
As with any medical procedure, Pacemakers, Defibrillators & Bi-Ventriculars do involve potential risks. These may include:
Infection at the implantation site.
Bleeding or bruising.
Damage to the heart or blood vessels from the leads.
Rarely, pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or device malfunction.
Preparing for Your Pacemakers, Defibrillators & Bi-Ventriculars Procedure
What to Expect
You will be awake during the procedure, which typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes. The area where the monitor will be implanted, usually on the left side of the chest, will be numbed with a local anesthetic. You may feel pressure but should not experience pain. The device is small, about the size of a USB drive, and is inserted just beneath the skin.
How to Prepare for Your Procedure
Fasting: You may be instructed to not eat or drink anything for a certain period before the procedure, usually 8 hours.
Medication: Continue taking your medications as prescribed unless advised otherwise by your physician. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Showering: You may be asked to shower with an antibacterial soap on the morning of the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
Medications to Discuss Before the Procedure
Blood Thinners: Let your doctor know if you take blood thinners. Some may need to be stopped a few days in advance.
What to Bring with You
A complete list of all your medications, including supplements and over-the-counter items.
Identification and insurance cards.
Have the name and contact information of a family member or friend who can be reached if necessary. Please note: Someone will need to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours after the procedure.
After the Procedure
Recovery: You’ll stay in a monitored recovery area for a few hours, you might feel drowsy from the sedation. All patients will go home the same day unless otherwise determined by the physician.
Activity: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until cleared by your care team.
Wound Care: Follow instructions carefully to keep the insertion site clean, dry, and free of infection.
Medications: You may be prescribed blood thinners to prevent clotting—take them exactly as instructed.
Tips for a Healthy Recovery
Give yourself time to rest and recover. Listen to your body and do not rush back into your normal activities.
Pay attention to any signs of infection at the incision site, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
Over-the-counter pain medication can be used to manage any discomfort at the implant site.
When to Call Your Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of infection, such as fever, increased pain, or drainage from the incision site.
If you notice any changes in your heart rhythm or experience fainting spells, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
If there is any change in your condition, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Have a Question? Check Here!
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A pacemaker prevents slow heartbeats by sending electrical impulses to maintain a normal rhythm. ICDs monitor heart rhythms and deliver shocks to correct dangerous arrhythmias. Bi-ventricular devices improve heart efficiency by synchronizing the left and right ventricles in heart failure patients.
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The battery life of a Pacemaker, Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs), or Bi-Ventricular device can vary but generally lasts between 5 to 10 years. The device's battery will be regularly monitored, and replacement is scheduled when necessary.
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You may be aware of the device's presence under your skin initially, but most patients quickly adapt and no longer notice it. You should not feel the device working, although those with a defibrillator may feel a shock if the device activates to correct an arrhythmia.
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Yes, most people with a Pacemaker, Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs), or Bi-Ventricular device can lead normal, active lives once they recover from the implantation procedure. However, you may need to take some precautions with physical activity and avoid close proximity to strong magnetic fields.
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You will need to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks after the implantation. Your physician will provide specific guidelines based on your condition and the type of device implanted. Long-term, you may need to avoid certain high-impact activities or sports.
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Keep the incision site clean and dry. Follow your physician's instructions on wound care and when it is safe to shower or bathe. Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, and report these to your healthcare provider.
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Yes, inform security personnel about your device, as it may set off metal detectors. Most everyday electronic devices do not interfere. Your healthcare provider will give you specific advice on precautions to take.
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If you feel a shock from your defibrillator, it is important to remain calm. If you experience just a single shock and do not have any other symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for advice. If you experience multiple shocks in a short period or feel unwell, seek immediate medical attention and call 911.
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Your device will need regular check-ups to ensure it is functioning correctly and to monitor the battery life. These checks can often be done remotely, but you will also have in-person appointments, typically every 6 to 12 months.