Many people suffer heart problems that impair their hearts\’ ability to pump blood to their lungs and the rest of their bodies. This deprives the organs and tissues of oxygen-rich blood, leading to feelings of fatigue, anxiety, and lightheadedness. When these problems are due to an abnormal heart rhythm, a pacemaker can be installed to help normalize the patient\’s heart rate.

A pacemaker is a medical device that is surgically implanted in the patient\’s body. It influences the heart\’s electrical system, regulating the production and spread of electrical impulses across the organ\’s chambers. We\’ll explain the circumstances that warrant the use of a pacemaker, and describe how it improves the heart\’s function. We\’ll also take a look at the methods used to implant the device.

When A Pacemaker Is Recommended

The device is considered a viable option whenever a patient suffers an abnormal heartbeat. This may be caused by an arrhythmia, a condition in which the organ beats too quickly, too slowly, or in an erratic fashion. A pacemaker can also be installed to correct a slow or inconsistent rhythm stemming from damage to the heart, as might occur during a myocardial infarction.

In some cases, older patients with advanced heart disease suffer a slower than normal heartbeat. A pacemaker can quicken the beat, resulting in increased blood flow through their bodies.

Applications for the device are varied, and decisions to implant it are based on how severe the patient\’s condition and whether less-invasive treatment options can be used. It may be implanted on a temporary basis, or left inside the body to address long-term cardiac problems.

How A Pacemaker Assists The Heart

The electrical impulses that trigger contractions in the heart\’s chambers are produced by a small group of cells called the sinoatrial (SA) node. The SA node is located in the right atrium. The impulses begin at the top of the organ, and spread downward, causing contractions in the atria and ventricles (upper and lower chambers).

A pacemaker is designed with a small computer, battery, and electrodes. The device is usually implanted in the chest with the electrodes inserted into a blood vessel leading to the heart. The electrodes are advanced into the right side of the organ. They monitor the electrical signals spreading through the chambers, and send the information to the computer. The computer uses the data to generate additional electrical impulses, and transfers them to the electrodes. They help to normalize the patient\’s heartbeat.

Installing The Device In The Chest Or Abdomen

The surgical procedure to implant a pacemaker is relatively simple. It can be completed in less than two hours. A general anesthesia may be provided through an IV, but more commonly a local anesthetic is used to numb the site of entry.

First, the surgeon will insert the electrodes and their respective wires into a vein near the shoulder. They are directed to the heart via a needle while the doctor uses x-rays (i.e. fluoroscopy) for visualization. Second, an incision is made into the chest over the site of installation. The pacemaker (computer and battery) is inserted under the skin, and the electrodes\’ wires are attached to it. Once the surgeon is certain the device works properly, the incision is closed.

Important Considerations Following Surgery

In-hospital recovery usually lasts no more than a single evening. The patient is released to his or her home once the doctor has confirmed that the pacemaker is successfully regulating their heartbeat. It is important to realize that certain appliances and devices can affect the pacemaker\’s function.

For example, metal detectors have been known to interrupt the electrical impulses generated by the computer. So too have microwave ovens, cell phones, and MRI machines. The medical team will advise the patient regarding what types of devices to avoid.

Regular follow-up is also important since the device may stop working for a number of reasons. The doctor may suggest routine visits every three to six months. This helps to ensure that problems affecting the pacemaker\’s function are detected and resolved while minimizing the heart\’s exposure to damage.

Find out more by visiting Cardiac Vascular and Thoracic Surgery Associates and for detailed information on Atrial Fibrillation visit our website.

Find out more by visiting http://www.cvtsa.com and for detailed information on Atrial Fibrillation visit http://www.cvtsa.com/AtrialFibrillation/C-525.html.

Author Bio: Find out more by visiting Cardiac Vascular and Thoracic Surgery Associates and for detailed information on Atrial Fibrillation visit our website.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Health, Doctor, Specialist, Treatment