Pacemaker Frequently Asked Questions

There are some basics things that you need to know about the installation and operation of the pacemaker into your body. Remember that if there are things you don’t understand or you have concerns about this procedure, you should talk to your doctor to get answers.

What is it?

Your heart has its own form of a pacemaker inside. When this begins to malfunction or stop working all together, a doctor can insert a medical device that will serve the same purpose. When you heart rate goes down and the heart can’t stop this from happening, the equipment kicks into gear. It sends electrodes to the muscles in the heart and forces it to continue beating in a regulated way.

Why do I need it?

There are two main reasons that a patient would need a pacemaker. If the heart cannot keep up with the number of beats it needs to function properly, it may be that the part of the heart in change of this regulation isn’t working properly. It could also mean that that actual electrical conduction system of the heart is malfunctioning and is not helping to keep your heart at its intended pace. If this is what your doctor recommends, he can set your pace in the office on the pacemaker and your heart will not go below that level.

What does the procedure entail?

For permanent equipment the doctor creates in incision in your chest. He then sends in equipment through a vein and makes sure that the electrode (or electrodes) are attached to the correct chamber(s) of the heart. Then, once the electrodes are attached to the equipment, it is placed inside of your chest. Most of the time it is placed above the muscle and bone but under the fat and skin. Most units have a lithium battery that keeps the system running smoothly.

As with most surgery, patients are usually given an antibiotic and some type of anesthetic so there is no pain during the process. However, it is important to take extreme care to make sure that the area heals completely and correctly. Because of how important the pacemaker is to the body, it needs to be set and the body needs to be able to adjust to its presence.

Will I need to go back to the doctor?

After the surgery you will need to go back for a follow up visit to make sure that the equipment is working properly. At this point, some testing will be done to make sure that the heart is keeping with the correct pace and everything is set at the right levels. Your doctor will let you know how often you need to come in to have the equipment checked and testing completed to see how the heart and the body are functioning.