A pacemaker is a small electronic device that is surgically implanted or inserted into the chest cavity, to regulate low or irregular heartbeats. This electronic device is highly recommended for patients whose heart rate drops to dangerously low levels, leading to life threatening situations. A artificial pacemaker insertion may be advised if you have problems of low heart rate.
Artificial pacemaker insertions are carried out at many multi-specialty hospitals across the country. Many reputed hospitals have online websites providing information about various facilities offered at their hospitals. Online hospital booking is a very effective way of booking any medical facility in advance.
Pacemaker insertion can significantly improve the quality of life of the patient. This small device, that weighs roughly 20 to 50 grams, is the size of a matchbox. It comprises of a pulse generator that has a tiny computer and a battery, and one or more than one wires called ‘pace leads’ that are attached to the heart. The electrical impulses that are emitted from the pulse generator reach the heart through the pace leads. The pacemaker works on demand, which means that it does not hinder the normal heart rate and works only when the need arises. In case the pacemaker senses a missed or a low heart rate, it signals at a steady rate. On the contrary, if the heart is beating normally it does not send any signals.
There are many hospitals for artificial pacemaker surgery in India and you may be advised for the surgery in the following cases:
• In case of an abnormally slow heart rate, also called as bradycardia
• In case of an abnormally high or fast heart rate, also known as tachycardia
• In case of a heart blockage, when the electrical signals are not transmitted properly to the heart
• In case of a heart attack or cardiac arrest, when the heart stops beating because of disrupted electrical signals.
A pacemaker is inserted in a relatively straightforward process, using local anesthesia in most cases. The pacemaker is placed on the left side of the chest, near the collar bone. The wires are guided through the blood vessels to reach the heart. There are many doctors for artificial pacemaker insertions in India who can effectively do this surgical procedure for you. You may get this surgical procedure done by any good doctor.
You may be advised to make follow up visits after the surgical procedure. The doctor will check how well the pacemaker is coping with your heart. You may resume physical activities soon after the surgery but it is recommended to avoid any strenuous physical activity for close to six weeks. There may also be a feeling of heaviness which may ease out soon. Feeling uncomfortable while lying down is also very common after the pacemaker insertion.
Getting an artificial pacemaker inserted is a very safe procedure and it usually does not cause major complications. However, in some cases the pacemaker may lose its ability to control the heartbeat. This may happen due to some malfunction or the wires getting displaced. In some cases of malfunction, the pacemaker can be fixed using wireless signals, but in case of displaced wires, surgery may be required.
