Permanent Pacemaker
What is it?
A pacemaker is a device used to supplement the electrical activity of the heart, in patients whose heart is not conducting correctly (i.e their heart rate is beating too slowly). It generally does not provide benefit when the heart beats too quickly.
The device, which is about the size of 2 stacked 50c coins, is implanted under the skin beneath the collarbone. It is connected to wires which rest inside the heart.
Preparation
Fasting is required for 6 hours prior to the admission time. Blood thinning medication may need to be stopped a few days before the procedure; however the cardiologist will advise on this. The patient can expect to be in hospital for 1-2 nights.
Results
Your cardiologist will advise on the result at the time of the procedure. A follow up appointment will more than likely be organized a couple of weeks later in the consulting rooms.
If you are a patient undergoing this procedure and you have any further queries, please raise them with your cardiologist.
