Pacemaker Implantation

Preparation

• Once your cardiologist confirms the need for a pacemaker, several pre-procedure tests will be conducted. These tests usually include an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, echocardiogram, and possibly a stress test.
• Your healthcare should be informed about all the medications that you are taking. Don't forget to mention if you have any allergies or adverse reactions to medications.
• Local anaesthesia is usually used for pacemaker implantation. You will be informed in advance if your cardiologist feels that general anaesthesia might be needed.
• It is advisable to arrange for transportation and a company to and from the hospital. The sedation used during the procedure may temporarily weaken your ability to drive safely.
• Thoroughly understand the pacemaker implantation procedure. Discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare team beforehand.
• Your healthcare team will ask you to avoid food and drink for a certain period. It is essential to adhere to these guidelines strictly to minimize the risk of complications during the procedure.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the chest area. Also, avoid wearing any jewellery or accessories that may affect the procedure.

What does the Procedure involve?

• The time taken for the pacemaker implantation procedure varies, typically ranging from one to two hours, depending on the type of pacemaker. This medical procedure involves the use of anaesthesia to ensure you experience no pain or discomfort. During the procedure, you will be positioned on the table, and intravenous lines will be started for administering nutritional fluids and medications.
• Small adhesive electrodes will be attached to various areas of the chest and linked to the electrocardiogram screen to monitor your hearts electrical activity concurrently. At the beginning of the procedure and throughout, your vital signs will be evaluated to detect any potential complications and address them effectively.
• Doctors start the process by inserting a sheath close to the collarbone, which helps to facilitate the introduction of leads that link the implantable pulse generator to the electrodes. Through the use of a catheter, these leads are guided toward the patient's heart and positioned within specific chambers.
• The opposite ends of the leads are connected to the implantable pulse generator. The working of this circuit is evaluated with the help of an Electrocardiogram, which is followed by the closing of the incision.

What follows the Procedure?

• After the pacemaker implantation procedure, the patient is usually monitored for a short period in a recovery area. Most individuals can return home the same day or the following day, depending on their overall health and complications.
• You will receive information about your prescribed medication and advised daily activity level. It is common to feel some tenderness and slight discomfort at the surgical site, but this can be alleviated with the use of prescribed pain medication.
• Patients are advised to avoid vigorous activities and heavy lifting for a specific period after the implantation to allow the incision to heal.
• Regular follow-up is necessary to monitor the pacemaker's functioning and ensure it is providing the desired support.