A pacemaker is a small medical device implanted in the chest to regulate the heart's rhythm. It is used primarily for individuals with heart conditions that cause abnormal heart rhythms, such as bradycardia (a heart rate that is too slow) or certain types of heart block. Pacemaker implantation has become a common and effective treatment for those whose heart's natural electrical system is not functioning correctly.
A pacemaker consists of a pulse generator, which contains a battery and electronic circuits, and one or more leads (wires) that are placed in the heart. The device sends electrical impulses to the heart to prompt it to beat at a normal rate and rhythm. Pacemakers can be programmed to deliver these impulses when the heart rate falls below a preset threshold, ensuring that the heart maintains an adequate rhythm for proper blood circulation.
Pacemaker implantation is typically required for patients who experience one or more of the following conditions:
These conditions can disrupt the heart's normal function, leading to symptoms that impair quality of life and potentially endanger health. A pacemaker helps regulate the heart's electrical activity, improving blood flow and preventing complications associated with abnormal heart rhythms.
Pacemaker implantation is a minimally invasive procedure that typically takes between one to two hours and is performed under local anesthesia, with the patient awake but sedated. The process involves the following steps:
Pacemaker implantation is a life-saving procedure that provides essential treatment for patients with heart rhythm disorders. By regulating the heart's rhythm, a pacemaker helps improve the heart's efficiency and prevents complications that could arise from abnormal heart rates. With advancements in pacemaker technology, these devices are now smaller, more efficient, and offer longer-lasting performance, enabling individuals to lead healthier, more active lives. The procedure is minimally invasive, has a low complication rate, and offers significant benefits for patients with heart conditions that affect the heart’s electrical system.