Pacemaker Implantation
A small implanted device that treats slow or irregular heart rhythms
Pacemaker implantation is an established treatment for patients experiencing slow or irregular heartbeats. A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device placed under the skin near the collarbone that helps regulate the heart's rhythm by sending gentle electrical signals.
Patients with conditions such as bradycardia, heart block, or certain arrhythmias may benefit from this procedure, especially if they experience symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or fainting.
At Kamalakar Heart Centre in Guntur, patients are evaluated with ECG, Holter monitoring and clinical assessment to decide whether a pacemaker is the appropriate treatment.
The Procedure
Pacemaker implantation is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia and typically completed within 1 to 2 hours.
A small incision is made near the collarbone. Thin wires (leads) are guided through a vein into the heart and connected to the pacemaker device, which is placed under the skin. The device is then programmed to suit the patient's specific heart rhythm requirements.
At Kamalakar Heart Centre, the procedure is performed by Dr. Kamalakar Kosaraju, Interventional Cardiologist.
Risks
Pacemaker implantation is a commonly performed procedure done under local anaesthesia. Like any procedure it carries risks, including infection, bleeding or bruising, lead displacement and, rarely, lung or blood-vessel injury. Your cardiologist will discuss these with you.
- Infection at the implant site
- Bleeding or bruising around the incision
- Movement of a lead from its position (lead displacement), which may need a repeat procedure
- Rarely, injury to the lung (collapsed lung) or to a blood vessel
Contact the clinic if you notice fever, increasing pain, redness, swelling or discharge at the implant site, or a return of dizziness or fainting.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients stay overnight for observation and return home the next day.
Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and excessive arm movement on the side of the implant for about 4 to 6 weeks. After recovery, most individuals can return to their normal lifestyle without significant restrictions.
Pacemaker batteries typically last 8 to 15 years. Regular follow-up visits are needed to check the device and its battery.
At Kamalakar Heart Centre in Guntur, follow-up visits and routine device checks are provided after implantation.
How Pacemaker Implantation Works
Diagnosis and Evaluation
ECG, Holter monitoring, and clinical assessment are used to determine the need for a pacemaker.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Blood tests and medication review are completed, and the procedure is explained in detail.
Implantation
A small incision is made, leads are positioned in the heart, and the pacemaker is placed under the skin. The procedure takes about 1–2 hours.
Programming and Testing
The device is adjusted according to the patient's heart rhythm and tested for proper function.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Patients are discharged within a day. Follow-ups are scheduled at regular intervals to monitor device performance.
Pacemaker Implantation – Frequently Asked Questions
A pacemaker is a device that helps control abnormal heart rhythms. It is recommended for patients with slow or irregular heartbeats causing symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or fainting.
Pacemaker implantation is a commonly performed procedure done under local anaesthesia. Like any procedure it carries risks, including infection, bleeding or bruising, lead displacement and, rarely, lung or blood-vessel injury. Your cardiologist will discuss these with you.
Most patients resume normal activities within a few weeks, with precautions such as avoiding heavy lifting on the implant side for the first 4–6 weeks.
Pacemakers usually last between 8 to 15 years. Regular check-ups are needed to monitor battery life and performance.
Yes. Most household appliances, including microwave ovens, can be used normally. Keep a mobile phone at least 15 cm (6 inches) away from the pacemaker: hold it to the ear on the opposite side and do not carry it in a chest pocket over the device. Tell doctors and airport security staff that you have a pacemaker, and check with your cardiologist before an MRI scan.