A pacemaker is a device that controls the heartbeat of individuals with specific heart conditions. It sends electrical impulses to the heart and helps it beat regularly.
At Aster Hospitals, healthcare providers recommend the pacemaker for individuals with an abnormal heart rhythm, also known as arrhythmia. A pacemaker is a device that is implanted under the skin near the collarbone. It works by sending electrical pulses to control the rhythm of the heart. Pacemakers are lifesavers for arrhythmia patients.
Pacemaker implantation can be scheduled in advance or done as an emergency measure with a temporary pacemaker. Depending on the type of pacemaker, additional procedures may be necessary for its placement.
Health Conditions Treated
- Bradycardia
- Heart block
- Heart failure
- Long QT syndrome
- Tachycardia
FAQs
At Aster Hospitals we provide the highest quality of care and a transformative experience for all your healthcare needs. With our network of multi-speciality hospitals, specialised doctors, and world-class technology, we bring global standards of medical care to our patients.
What is a pacemaker?
A pacemaker is implanted under the skin to regulate the heart's rhythm. Electrical pulses are utilized to stimulate the heart to beat normally. Pacemakers are often used for people with irregular heartbeats or heart conditions that cause their heart to beat too slowly. They are an effective treatment option for many patients.
Is pacemaker implantation a major surgery?
Pacemakers are usually implanted under the skin of the chest through a minor surgical procedure. The process can often be completed using local anesthesia. The doctor makes a small incision below the collarbone on the chest wall.
Is a pacemaker painful?
After a pacemaker is fitted, the patient might experience pain or discomfort for the first 48 hours. Yet, a pain-relieving medication eases the discomfort. Additionally, there may be some bruising where the pacemaker was inserted, but this typically subsides within a few days.
Are pacemakers always permanent?
If a patient needs help with the heart rhythm, surgeons can implant a temporary (short-term) or permanent (long-term) pacemaker. Typically, a temporary pacemaker is inserted through a vein in the neck and remains externally attached. A permanent pacemaker is placed inside the chest or abdomen.
What is the test for pacemaker patients?
Before receiving a pacemaker, various tests will be conducted to ensure it is suitable for the patient. One such test is the electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). It is a brief, painless assessment examining the heart's electrical activity.
How is a pacemaker installed?
The patient undergoes a surgical procedure where the pacemaker is implanted under the chest’s skin. The process takes a few hours. The patient will be given anesthesia for comfort during the surgery.
What is the age limit for a pacemaker?
Pacemakers can be implanted in individuals of any age. They may be children, although they are typically more common in those over 60. Generally, the natural pacemaker deteriorates with age or due to specific health conditions.
Is life normal with a pacemaker?
It may seem like many things to avoid with a pacemaker, but you will only need to make minimal daily lifestyle changes. You can resume everyday activities, such as yard work, bathing, and having sex, as before.
What happens if the pacemaker fails?
If the pacemaker stops functioning correctly, it can increase your stroke and heart failure risk. Patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) are particularly susceptible to a fivefold increase in the risk of stroke. Additionally, the risk of death related to cardiac problems can double.
What is the recovery time after a pacemaker?
After surgery, the patient may notice a rough edge on the incision area. Yet, over time, this should soften. Patients may also be able to detect the shape of the pacemaker beneath the skin. Resuming regular activities or work within 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure is generally safe.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
At Aster Hospitals, we have the latest procedures and a team of expert surgeons to implant a pacemaker. Aster Hospitals has a well-equipped operating room with state-of- the-art equipment and technology to perform the surgery, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Additionally, Aster Hospitals has the following:
Cardiac catheterization lab
In Aster Hospital's cardiac catheterization lab, doctors perform diagnostic tests and procedures to study the heart and its blood vessels. The lab has specialized equipment. It has highly trained medical professionals who use catheters to access the heart through arteries and veins. These procedures can help diagnose and treat coronary artery disorder, heart valve problems, and heart failure.
Aster Hospitals also has a team of skilled and experienced cardiac specialists who can perform the procedure and track the patient's condition before, during, and after the surgery. The team includes:
Cardiologists
Cardiologists specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating disorders related to the heart and circulatory system. They work with other medical professionals to develop personalized treatment plans to meet every patient's unique needs. They are vital in helping individuals maintain healthy hearts and live longer and more active lives.
Electrophysiologists
They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of electrical problems of the heart. They study and understand the heart's electrical activity and use that knowledge to treat patients with heart rhythm disorders.
Aster Hospitals also has the necessary infrastructure and resources to provide ongoing care and support for the patient. It includes follow-up appointments, monitoring, and maintenance of the pacemaker device. Aster Hospitals specialize in cardiac care. With a strong reputation for quality and safety, Aster Hospitals is the best choice for pacemaker implantation.
