Pacemaker implantation is a medical procedure that involves placing a small device under the skin to help regulate the heart's rhythm. This device is essential for patients who experience abnormal heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias, where the heart beats too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. The pacemaker ensures the heart maintains a normal rhythm by sending electrical signals to stimulate the heart when necessary.
A pacemaker is typically recommended for patients with bradycardia, a condition where the heart rate is unusually slow, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, or fainting. In some cases, pacemakers are also used to treat certain types of heart block or arrhythmias that don’t respond to medication. By delivering electrical impulses, the pacemaker ensures the heart beats at an appropriate rate, preventing complications such as strokes or heart failure.
Pacemaker implantation is typically performed under local anesthesia, with the patient awake but sedated to reduce discomfort. The device is implanted just below the collarbone, with leads (thin wires) inserted into the heart through a vein. The leads are positioned in the heart chambers where they will detect and regulate the heart's electrical activity. Once the pacemaker is in place, it is programmed to meet the specific needs of the patient.
In conclusion, pacemaker implantation is a life-changing procedure that helps manage heart rhythm disorders, improving the patient’s quality of life and overall heart health.
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