Heart Pacemaker Surgery

The heart is an excellent muscular pump regulated by electrical impulses. A heartbeat is produced by this electrical impulse. An irregular cardiac rhythm occurs when the normal flow of electrical impulses in the heart is disrupted. Arrhythmia is defined as a medical condition in which there is a deviation from the heart’s regular rhythm. Medications are often used to treat arrhythmias. However, when therapy does not improve the condition of the patient, heart pacemaker surgery becomes necessary.
“A pacemaker is an electronic device that is surgically implanted to regulate heartbeats.” A pacemaker sends additional electrical impulses to the heart, thus causing it to beat in a regular way. Thus, heart pacemaker surgery offers the patient a quality, self-dependent life filled with ease and comfort.

What is pacemaker heart surgery?

Heart pacemaker surgery is the surgical insertion of a small electrical device known as a pacemaker into your chest. The device is normally inserted under the skin towards the chest’s left side, near the collarbone. Pacemakers cost typically between Rs. 45,000 and Rs. 1,50,000. The pacemaker operation is normally performed under local anesthesia and lasts around one hour.

Implanting a pacemaker is a quite straightforward procedure. Furthermore, since medical science has developed over the years, it has become much easier to carry out without inflicting much discomfort on the patients.

Types of pacemakers of the heart?

The type of pacemaker you need is determined by the symptoms as well as the type of heart problem you have.

● Single-chamber pacemaker:

Single-chamber pacemakers possess one lead that links the pulse generator to one chamber of the heart. For most individuals, doctors regulate the heart pacing by connecting the Single-chamber pacemaker to the lower heart chamber, the right ventricle.

Usually, leads are linked to your right atrium which is the upper heart chamber to regulate the pacing in that chamber, depending on the symptoms and the kind of pacing you require.

● Dual-chamber pacemaker:

This device links to both the chambers on the right side of your heart i.e. the right atrium and the right ventricle, through two leads. This type of pacemaker permits the two chambers to contract and relax with a regular rhythm. Contraction allows blood to flow normally from the right atrium into the right ventricle.

● Biventricular pacemaker:

A biventricular pacemaker, also known as a cardiac resynchronization treatment (CRT) device, is attached to the right atrium and both ventricles through three leads. Many persons with the condition of heart failure do not have their left and right ventricles pumping together. Doctors set the biventricular pacemaker to synchronize ventricular contractions so that they both pump simultaneously.

What conditions are treated with a pacemaker?

Pacemakers are normally used for treating heart rhythm problems and other illnesses like:

● Bradycardia occurs when your heart beats abnormally slowly.

● Fainting spells (syncope) are sudden periods of unconsciousness caused as a result of a reduction in blood pressure.

● Heart attack

● Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a disorder that causes abnormal heart muscle thickening.

Also Read – Best Heart Hospital in Jaipur

How would you know if you need a pacemaker?

One or more of the following symptoms may suggest that you need a pacemaker:

● A general sensation of exhaustion that makes even routine everyday chores difficult to perform

● Lightheadedness and dizziness

● You have arm or leg muscle weakness.

● Shortness of breath which may occur with mild or no physical activity

● Mental disorientation caused by a shortage of oxygenated blood to the brain

● The sense that your heart is hammering or fluttering

● Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and abdomen that persists

Does it require major surgery for a pacemaker?

Doctors determine whether or not to do major surgery based on your medical condition and the kind of pacemaker you require. Catheter-based procedures are typically done in an hour or less. Transvenous and surgical techniques, on the other hand, require between two to five hours.

What are the possible benefits?

● To begin, a pacemaker aids in the treatment of symptoms such as persistent tiredness, dizziness, or fainting by keeping your heartbeat in rhythm.
● Moreover, if you have heart failure, a pacemaker may stop the worsening of your condition and improve your overall heart function.
● Lastly, if you are at risk of ventricular tachycardia, a pacemaker may save your life by indicating you need immediate treatment by your doctor.

FAQ’S

Is getting a pacemaker a major surgery?

No. Heart pacemaker surgery without complications is not usually considered major surgery. The treatment is generally done under local anesthetic. Furthermore, pacemaker implantation does not need open cardiac surgery and most patients are able to return home within a few hours or days.

How long is heart surgery for a pacemaker?

The pacemaker surgery time is normally one to two hours. However, if you are undergoing other heart surgeries simultaneously, it may take longer.

Is a pacemaker considered heart surgery?

No, having a pacemaker implanted is not considered heart surgery. A pacemaker can help get rid of the symptoms of bradycardia by stimulating the heart’s rhythm. This implies that people have greater energy and less shortness of breath.

What are the 3 natural pacemakers of the heart?

The SA node (sinoatrial node), the AV node (atrioventricular node), and the His-Purkinje Network are the three natural pacemakers of the heart. These natural pacemakers function in coordination to help balance the normal rate and rhythm of your heartbeat.