Artificial pacemakers are devices that are implanted into the body, just below the collarbone, to take over the job of the heart’s own electrical system and prevent slow heart rates. Although they weigh only an ounce and are the size of a large wristwatch face, a pacemaker contains a computer with memory and electrical circuits, a powerful battery (generator), and special wires called “leads.” The generator creates electrical impulses that are carried by the leads to the heart muscle, signaling it to pump.
Getting a pacemaker does not require open-heart surgery — the procedure usually takes only about two hours. The pacemaker generator is implanted in a small pocket made under the skin. The leads are usually placed in a vein near the collarbone, and then moved to the heart with the help of an X-ray machine. The leads touch the heart muscle on one end, and are connected to the pacemaker generator on the other end. The pacemaker is programmed to send signals to the heart, and settings can be changed at any time. Routine monitoring, sometimes even by phone, makes sure the pacemaker is working properly. The battery in the generator lasts 5-10 years and must be replaced when it runs out.
Type of Pacemakers
- Single Chamber Pacemakershave one wire that is placed in the right upper chamber (atrium) or lower chamber (ventricle).
- Dual Chamber Pacemakershave two wires, one in the atrium and one in the ventricle.
- Biventricular Pacemakers have three wires, one in the right atrium, one in the right ventricle and a third in the left ventricle. These more complicated pacemakers take more time to implant, and can be used to improve pumping in patients with heart failure.
- Rate Responsive Pacemakers adjust the heart rate to a patient’s level of activity. They pace faster when a patient is exercising and slower when a patient is resting.
When are Pacemakers Used?
Pacemakers may be prescribed for a number of conditions, including:
- Bradycardia
A condition in which the heart beats too slowly, causing symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness or Fainting spells.
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
A common heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats too fast and chaotically. Sometimes, people with AFib can also have slow rhythms. Medications used to control atrial fibrillation may result in slow rhythms, which are treated by pacemakers.
- Heart failure
A condition in which the heartbeat is not strong enough to carry a normal amount of blood and oxygen to the brain and other parts of the body. A special pacemaker can be programmed to increase the force of heart muscle contractions. This is called “biventricular pacing” or “resynchronization” therapy.
About MyMedOpinion.comMyMedOpinion affiliated Best hospitals in India provide an medical opinion from experienced surgeons and the treatment cost includes companion stay , surgeon fee, medicines and consumables, nursing care, patient's food and airport pick up & drop etc. etc. We offer free, no obligation assistance to international patients to find world class medical treatment in India. We offer support and services to facilitate the care you require. We can help you find the best hospital in IndiaSend us a Medical Report to Get FREE Medical Opinion from India's Top DoctorsMyMedOpinion.com is the hub of Surgeons and specialists for major diseases. We give you a chance to speak to our doctors and discuss your health issues directly.Email Us: Free@mymedopinion.com Call Us: +91-7503537224
No comments:
Post a Comment