Implanting a pacemaker is considered a minimally invasive procedure.
This article discusses pacemaker implantation surgery, its purpose, and some of the risks and contraindications.
It also goes over what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
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What Is Pacemaker Surgery?
Pacemaker surgery is done to implant a pacemaker rig.
Pacemaker surgery is used to treat a wide range of heart rhythm disorders.
While typically performed in adults withheart disease, it is also used in children withcongenital heart conditions.
Most pacemakers are implanted usinglocal anesthesia, although you may also receiveintravenous (IV) sedationto help you relax.
Types
There are different types of pacemakers used to treat different types of arrhythmia.
In addition, your life expectancy may improve.
The indications for a pacemaker have increased in recent decades.
Leave any valuables at home.
Food and Drink
You will need to stop eating at midnight the night before your surgery.
Most pacemaker surgeries are performed in the morning to accommodate the prolonged fasting period.
Medications
Medications that promote bleeding must be avoided before pacemaker surgery.
You will also be asked for your insurance card.
Although most facilities will bill for their services, some may ask for the upfront payment ofcopay or coinsurancecosts.
If upfront payment is requested, ask what form of payment the office accepts.
You will also need to bring someone with you to drive you home.
This, along with the aftereffects of IV sedation, makes driving hazardous.
Avoid putting on any lotions, makeup, creams, nail polish, or fragrance.
After this, you are led to the back to change into a hospital gown.
Local anesthesiais given to numb the surgical site.
To reduce the risk of infection, an intravenousantibioticwill also be delivered.
The end of leads are secured.
Once the pacemaker is properly positioned under the skin, the rig is tested.
From start to finish, pacemaker surgery takes around 30 minutes.
The implantation of an AICD can take longer (usually around an hour).
After Surgery
After surgery, you are wheeled to the recovery room.
It is not unusual to feel some pain and discomfort around the implantation site immediately after surgery.
Your healthcare provider will provide medications to help control these symptoms at home.
If you feel sick from the anesthesia, the nurse may be able to provide you withanti-nausea medications.
This can be controlled with over-the-counterTylenol (acetaminophen)or a short course of prescription opioid painkillers.
Bruising in the area where the pacemaker was placed is normal and common.
Avoid bathing or showering for the first day.
Check the wound daily and call your practitioner if there are any signs of infection or abnormal healing.
Speak with your cardiologist about an appropriate exercise plan or ask for a referral to a qualifiedphysical therapist.
High-impact sports should be permanently avoided as heavy blows can damage the equipment.
when you obtain healed, you may notice a dramatic improvement in your energy levels and stamina.
The pacemaker helps your heart work efficiently, reducing fatigue and allowing you to be more active.
One of the keys to sustaining good health is routine visits with your cardiologist.
How Long Do Pacemaker Batteries Last?
Pacemaker batteries last between five and 10 years.
After this time, you will need surgery to replace the pulse generator.
In most cases, this procedure can be done on an outpatient basis.
You should carry this with you at all times.
Alternatively, consider purchasing acustom medical ID braceletthat has the pacemaker information engraved on it.
A pacemaker can help improve symptoms like palpitations, breathlessness, and trouble exercising.
The pacemaker is implanted during a procedure involving local anesthesia.
You may also receive a sedative.
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