Cardiac Sciences

Understanding Pacemakers: Types and Indications

Dr. Rajpal RL Singh Jul 30, 2024

What is a Pacemaker?

A pacemaker is a device implanted in patients with heart rhythm problems, primarily for those with a slow heart rhythm known as bradycardia. It helps manage symptoms like blackouts, dizziness, and difficulty breathing caused by a slow heart rate.

Types of Pacemakers

There are two main types of pacemakers:

Single Chamber Pacemakers: A wire is placed in the lower chamber of the heart (right ventricle).
Dual Chamber Pacemakers: Two wires are placed, one in the top chamber (right atrium) and one in the bottom chamber (right ventricle).

Additionally, advanced pacemakers, such as biventricular devices, are used for patients with heart failure. These devices improve quality of life, exercise tolerance, and longevity.

Indications for Pacemakers

Pacemakers are prescribed based on symptoms, ECG results, and often a 24- to 48-hour recording known as a Holter monitor. Your cardiologist will determine whether you need a single chamber, dual chamber, or an advanced pacemaker.

The Implantation Procedure

The pacemaker implantation is a simple, straightforward procedure usually done as a day case or with an overnight hospital stay:

Preparation: A small incision is made under the shoulder.
Placement: A wire is passed through a vein to the right ventricle, and if needed, another wire is placed in the right atrium.
Connection: The wires are connected to a pulse generator placed under the skin.
Completion: The incision is sutured up.

The entire process takes about an hour and is performed under local anesthesia, with the patient fully awake and cooperating to ensure stable lead placement.

Risks and Considerations

The procedure carries very low risk, but potential complications include infection, bleeding, and damage to the lining of the lung. These risks are managed effectively by experienced cardiologists.

Conclusion

If you experience recurrent dizziness, blackouts, or difficulty breathing, consult your cardiologist. They will perform necessary tests like an ECG, echocardiogram, and Holter monitoring to determine if a pacemaker is needed. Advanced pacemakers like biventricular devices offer significant benefits for heart failure patients.

Our facilities at Fortis Hospitals in Bangalore, including Bannerghatta Road, Cunningham Road, Nagarbavi, and Richmond Road, are equipped to provide these

Services.

Dr. Rajpal RL Singh | Fortis Hospital BG Road Bangalore