Pacemaker Implantation -- 718.780.7830

A pacemaker is a small, electronic device that is implanted in the chest to regulate your heart rhythm. The pacemaker generator is generally implanted under the collarbone. Electrical wire leads are then threaded through the veins in the chest to the heart.

Patient Preparations for a Pacemaker Implantation
Fasting Requirements: You will be instructed not to eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your procedure.

Medication Considerations: If you are taking prescription medications, you should discuss with your physician whether you should continue to take your medications on the day of your procedure. Patients who take blood thinners, such as Coumadin®, will be advised by their physicians to stop taking this medication for a period of time prior to their Pacemaker implantation. If you are diabetic, it is important for you to discuss with your physician how to adjust insulin and food intake prior to your procedure.

Overnight Arrangements: You should pack a small bag of essentials since you will be admitted to the medical center and stay overnight.

What to Expect During a Pacemaker Insertion

• An intravenous (IV) tube will be placed into a vein in your arm. You will be given a sedative through the IV to help you relax.
• Your heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure will be continuously monitored.
• The implantation site will be numbed with a local anesthetic medication.
• An incision is made to create a pocket just below the skin.
• The lead for the pacemaker is inserted into a vein through the chest incision, then it is threaded to and positioned inside the heart. The Electrophysiology Lab is equipped with special imaging equipment that allows the physician to view the lead as it is threaded towards the heart.
• Once the lead is tested, it is then connected to the pacemaker, which is then programmed to treat your specific type of arrhythmia.
• The incision is closed and covered with bandages.
• The estimated time that it takes for a pacemaker implantation is one to two hours.

What to Expect During Recovery from a Pacemaker Implantation

• A nurse will continue to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, pulses, and insertion site.
• Upon discharge, you will be instructed to limit arm movement for three weeks on whichever side that you had the pacemaker implanted.
• It is essential that you continue to see your physician regularly for follow-up care.