A pacemaker is a medical device that registers heart activity. In the event of abnormal heart activity, it emits electrical impulses to ensure an optimal heart rate. Pacemaker surgery is a minor procedure that usually takes less than an hour.
Here you will find further information and selected specialists for the implantation of a pacemaker.
A pacemaker consists of
It is only about the size of a matchbox. The housing of the pacemaker is made of titanium. Long-life lithium-iodine accumulators are used as batteries.
The probes are connected to the atrium and/or ventricle of the heart and transmit the cardiac activity to the pacemaker. If heart activity slows down, the pacemaker sends electrical impulses via the probes to achieve an optimal heart rate.
The defibrillator is a further development of the pacemaker systems. The defibrillator is also used to treat cardiac arrhythmias that are too fast.
Implanted pacemakers are basically divided into four different types. Which pacemaker is used depends on the respective heart disease and its accompanying symptoms.
The single-chamber pacemaker has only one probe. It is anchored in the right atrium or in the right ventricle. If the heart is not active, the pacemaker sends electrical impulses to the heart. This causes the atrium or ventricle to contract.
With a dual-chamber pacemaker, stimulation takes place via the two electrodes in the right atrium and in the right ventricle. In exceptional cases, the left ventricle can also be stimulated. Dual-chamber pacemakers control the atrium and ventricle in a coordinated manner.
Three-chamber pacemakers have three probes. These can stimulate the right atrium as well as the left and right ventricles. Three-chamber pacemakers are used when the heart no longer beats in a coordinated manner.
Frequency-adapted pacemakers can adapt the heart rate to the body's needs. Sensors detect body movement and respiratory volume and adjust the frequency accordingly.
A pacemaker is implanted in the chest, the electrodes are placed directly in the heart © peterschreiber.media | AdobeStock
With pacemakers, a distinction is made between temporarily and permanently implanted pacemakers. In general, treatment with a pacemaker should last as short as possible.
Temporary pacemakers are not implanted under the skin. They stimulate cardiac activity via the esophagus or the skin. Temporary pacemakers are used for
are used.
Various conditions can make a permanent pacemaker necessary, such as cardiac arrhythmia/bradycardia. In bradycardia, the heart beats too slowly, well below 60 beats per minute, or even stops completely. As a consequence, those affected suffer from
If the ECG shows longer pauses or if blockages of the excitation conduction occur, pacemakers can take over the function as standard therapy.
The insertion of a pacemaker is a minor surgical procedure that usually takes less than an hour.
Under local anesthesia, the electrodes are inserted into the heart via a vein through a skin incision below the subclavian fossa.
The position of the pacemaker probes can be checked and optimally adjusted using X-ray fluoroscopy. Conductivity and function can be tested by means of immediate control measurements. The pacemaker unit is then connected to the probes.
The unit is implanted in a tissue pocket between the chest muscles. It may be necessary to insert a drain to drain any bleeding to the outside.
The day after the procedure, the patient can be discharged home after a functional check of the pacemaker and the wound.
The patient receives a pacemaker card. This contains important information about the type, function and programming of the implanted device as well as details of follow-up appointments.
You should always carry this card with you in future.
The following specific complications can occur during and after the implantation of a pacemaker:
Once the wound has healed and the pacemaker has been correctly adjusted, you can lead a completely normal life again.
However, there are a few things you need to bear in mind with a pacemaker. In exceptional cases, the functioning of pacemakers can be impaired by electrical circuits and magnetic fields. From devices such as
should be kept half an arm's length to an arm's length away. Sources of interference with special labeling such as
must be completely avoided. After the pacemaker has been fitted, patients are given comprehensive information about the possible risk factors.
People with pacemakers must have regular check-ups. During these examinations, the doctor checks
The intervals between pacemaker check-ups range from six months to a year.
When the pacemaker has reached the end of its service life, the pacemaker is completely replaced. This is also done under local anesthesia. Since a tissue pocket already exists, replacing the pacemaker is a minor procedure.
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