Basics Relating To Pacemaker You Should Be Aware Of

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By Laura Fox


A normal heart generates its own rate and rhythm at a specialized site known as the sinoatrial node. An electrical charge that is generated at this point is spread to the rest of the heart and eventually results in the contraction of the ventricles to pump the blood. This happens in an intermittent fashion to yield the characteristic heart rhythm. When node is affected by disease this does not happen and an artificial pacemaker is needed.

The primary role of these devices in Princeton, NJ is to normalize the heart rate and rhythm. There are a number of secondary benefits as well. Fainting episodes in persons with heart disease are often treated in this manner. Such episodes result when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Other common indications include congestive heart failure (in cardiac re-synchronization therapy) and heart muscle disease (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).

The decision to have the device will be made by the cardiologist. You will first be evaluated through a physical examination and investigations such as the echocardiogram and electrocardiogram. Once you have been identified as a suitable candidate, you will be prepared for the procedure. Part of the preparation includes shaving and the stoppage of any drugs and foods that may increase the risk of bleeding.

The process through which the pacer is inserted is fairly straightforward. Local or general anesthesia are used to minimize the pain. Once the area of interest has been numbed, a small cut is made on an area near the shoulder. The leads are then maneuvered to the heart through the guidance of an instrument known as a fluoroscope. This operation takes an average of 30 to 90 minutes. Antibiotics are usually administered to prevent infections.

The procedure is performed as a day case in most centers but overnight admission to hospital is not uncommon. The admission makes it possible for one to be monitored and to establish whether the device that was fitted is working well. Frequency adjustments are usually made if the rate is either too high or too low. A number of complications should be anticipated. These include infections, bleeding and damage to organs.

One needs to have regular medical checkups so as to determine whether the device is functioning properly. The frequency varies from one patient to another but the general recommendation is that the first full checkup should be scheduled at six weeks after the operation. Subsequent checkups are then scheduled at six months intervals except in cases where complications are anticipated. The main parameters to be evaluated include the sensing ability, the threshold and the lead integrity.

There is no need to change lifestyle dramatically after this surgery. However, some precautions should be undertaken to avoid interfering with the functioning of the device. One of the things that need to be avoided is a strong magnetic field. Such may exist in MRI machines that are used to generate radiological images. Strong contact sports should also be avoided due to the risk of mechanical damage to the device.

Patients with the device need to carry around identification cards. The cards carry important information such as their primary symptom, the cause of their condition and the electrocardiogram tracing. Other important information include the pacer center, date of manufacture, the model and the lead type. The card makes it possible for treatment to be provided even if the patient visits a different facility.




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