Pacemaker Implantation

What is a pacemaker?

A pacemaker is an electronic device that regulates the rhythm of your heartbeat. 

Your heart’s electrical system regulates your heartbeat and the pumping of blood throughout your body. Normally, your heart beats 60 to 100 times a minute. Any change in your heart rhythm — too fast, too slow, or irregular — affects the normal pumping function of your heart and blood circulation throughout your body. 

A pacemaker sends an electrical signal to your heart to reset the rhythm if your heart beats too fast or too slow. The device is made up of a pulse generator, leads, and electrodes. 

Pulse generator

The pulse generator contains a small computer that monitors the rhythm of your heartbeat. It also houses the electrical circuitry that delivers the low-voltage electrical pulse that resets your heartbeat. 

Leads and electrodes

Leads and electrodes travel from the pulse generator to your heart to monitor rhythm and deliver the electrical pulse. 

Who needs a pacemaker implantation?

The team of experts at Affiliated Cardiologists of Arizona determines who needs a pacemaker implantation after a comprehensive evaluation. You may benefit from a pacemaker if you have an arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat.

Types of arrhythmias include:

• Bradycardia: heartbeat is too slow 
• Tachycardia: heartbeat is too fast
• Heart block: delayed heartbeat
• Atrial fibrillation: heartbeat is too fast and irregular

The team may also recommend pacemaker implantation to treat patients with congestive heart failure. 

What happens during pacemaker implantation?

At Affiliated Cardiologists of Arizona, the team performs pacemaker implantation in the hospital as an outpatient procedure. 

Your cardiologist inserts a lead through a vein and advances it towards your heart using X-ray-guided imaging. They secure the leads to the appropriate places inside your heart and attach them to the pulse generator.

Your cardiologist places the pulse generator under your skin near your collarbone.

After your pacemaker implantation, the team sends you to the recovery area for monitoring before discharging you home. 

What happens after pacemaker implantation?

Most patients resume their usual activities within a few days after their pacemaker implantation. The team schedules regular follow-up appointments every 3-6 months to monitor your heartbeat and pacemaker function.

The pulse generator runs on a battery that typically lasts up to 15 years. Your cardiologist replaces the battery as needed.

Call Affiliated Cardiologists of Arizona or book a consultation online today.