Pacemaker Insertion: A Solution for Irregular Heartbeats
A Pacemaker Insertion is a common and highly effective procedure for treating a slow or irregular heartbeat, a condition known as an arrhythmia. A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that helps the heart maintain a normal rhythm. It’s a key part of cardiac care and heart disease treatment when a person’s natural electrical system isn’t working correctly. An interventional cardiologist, or heart specialist, is the cardiovascular medicine doctor who performs this procedure.
ABOUT DR. SACHIN PATIL
Dr Sachin Patil is a renowned senior consultant & Interventional Cardiologist practising in the city of Nagpur, Maharashtra. He has experience of more than 15 years in the medical field. He has performed more than 10,000 + coronary angiography and more than 5000 + coronary angioplasty, 2000+ Pacemaker, 1000+ Mitral Vavotomy & Balloon Repairs. He is known for his precision, patient-first approach, and extensive expertise in a wide range of interventional cardiac procedures. His extensive hands-on experience in interventional procedures has made him a trusted name in the management of complex cardiac conditions. Dr. Sachin Patil continues to be at the forefront of cardiology, committed to delivering advanced, patient-centric care.
NOVA HEART HOSPITAL
Nova Heart Hospital is a leading super-specialty cardiac care center located in Nagpur, Maharashtra, dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality heart care under one roof. With a patient-first philosophy, cutting-edge technology, and a team of highly experienced cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, Nova Heart Hospital has earned a reputation as one of the region’s most trusted names in cardiovascular healthcare.
Symptoms and Causes of Arrhythmia Requiring a Pacemaker
A Pacemaker Insertion is often recommended during a cardiology consultation for patients with a slow heartbeat (bradycardia) or other rhythm issues that cause symptoms. These symptoms can be life-altering and may include:
- Fainting spells or dizziness 😵💫
- Shortness of Breath
- Fatigue and general weakness
- Chest Pain
The underlying causes for needing a pacemaker often include:
- Sick Sinus Syndrome: A malfunction of the heart’s natural pacemaker (the sinus node).
- Heart Block: A condition where the electrical signals that tell the heart to beat are slowed or blocked.
- Heart Damage: Damage from a previous heart attack or other heart conditions like Heart Failure Treatment can disrupt the heart’s electrical pathways.
The Pacemaker Insertion Procedure
A Pacemaker Insertion is a straightforward, minimally invasive procedure performed in a Cardiology Clinic or a Best Heart Hospital under local anesthesia.
- Preparation: The patient is sedated, and the incision site, usually near the collarbone, is numbed.
- Incision: A small incision is made, and the cardiologist threads one or more insulated wires, called leads, into a major vein near the collarbone.
- Lead Placement: Using X-ray guidance (similar to Angiography), the leads are advanced to the correct chambers of the heart. The leads are then tested to ensure they can sense and pace the heart’s rhythm.
- Device Insertion: The leads are connected to the pacemaker, which is a small, flat device. The pacemaker is then placed under the skin or muscle in the chest.
- Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or surgical glue.
The procedure typically takes about an hour, and most patients can go home the same or the next day. A pacemaker provides a steady, reliable heartbeat, allowing patients to resume normal activities and significantly improving their quality of life.
FAQs on Pacemaker Insertion
Q1: How long does a pacemaker last?
A1: The battery in a pacemaker typically lasts between 7 to 15 years. Once the battery is low, a simple procedure is done to replace the device without needing to replace the leads.
Q2: Is a pacemaker the same as an ICD?
A2: No. A pacemaker is used for a slow heartbeat. An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is used for dangerously fast, life-threatening heart rhythms and can also function as a pacemaker.
Q3: Can an Online cardiologist consultation help with a pacemaker decision?
A3: An online cardiologist consultation can be a good way to discuss symptoms that may warrant a pacemaker. However, the final decision and the procedure itself require a physical exam and testing at a Cardiology Clinic.
Q4: What is the relationship between Angioplasty and Pacemaker Insertion?
A4: They are different procedures. An Angioplasty is for blocked arteries (for example, in a heart attack treatment), while a Pacemaker Insertion is for electrical rhythm problems. However, a single heart doctor like Dr. Sachin Patil may perform both.
Q5: What is the main benefit of a pacemaker?
A5: The main benefit is to relieve symptoms of a slow heart rate, such as fainting and fatigue, and to reduce the risk of serious complications.
Dr. Sachin Patil: A Leading Cardiologist in Nagpur
For residents of Nagpur, Dr. Sachin Patil, a top heart doctor with MBBS, MD (Medicine), and DM (Cardiology) qualifications, is a highly respected senior consultant & interventional cardiologist. His expertise extends to advanced procedures like Pacemaker Insertion, which he performs with a commitment to patient safety and excellent outcomes. Dr. Patil provides comprehensive cardiology consultation and manages all aspects of heart disease treatment, ensuring his patients receive accessible and affordable heart care of the highest quality.
