Pacemakers play a key role in managing certain heart conditions, but understanding how they work and what options are available can be confusing.
At Pinnacle Healthcare System in Hollywood and Pembroke Pines, Florida, we’re dedicated to providing you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your heart health.
Our board-certified cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating different heart conditions. If you’ve been told you could benefit from a pacemaker, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Keep reading as we explore the ins and outs of pacemakers and how one could help you maintain a healthy heart.
A pacemaker is a small medical device implanted in your chest to help regulate your heart's rhythm. It sends electrical impulses to your heart muscles to ensure they beat at a regular pace.
We typically recommend pacemakers for patients with arrhythmias, a condition where the heart beats too fast, too slowly, or irregularly.
Pacemakers are made up of two main components: the pulse generator and the leads.
The pulse generator is a small metal box containing the battery and electronic circuitry that generates electrical impulses.
The leads are insulated wires that carry these impulses from the pulse generator to the heart muscle.
The device monitors your heart rate and sends electrical signals when it detects an abnormal rhythm, helping to maintain a steady heartbeat.
Implanting a pacemaker is generally straightforward and safe, with the procedure performed using local anesthesia.
We make a small incision near your collarbone to place the pulse generator and insert the leads into your heart.
The procedure typically takes about an hour or two, and most patients can go home the same day or the following day.
There are three main types of pacemakers, each designed to address specific heart conditions. Understanding the differences can help you and your provider choose the best option for your needs.
A single-chamber pacemaker has one lead that connects the pulse generator to either the right atrium or the right ventricle of your heart.
We typically use this type of pacemaker for patients with bradycardia, a condition where the heart beats too slowly.
By sending electrical impulses to the right chamber of the heart, it helps regulate the heart rate and improve overall cardiac function.
A dual-chamber pacemaker has two leads, one connecting to the right atrium and the other to the right ventricle.
This type of pacemaker coordinates the timing of contractions between the two chambers, mimicking the heart's natural rhythm more closely.
It is often recommended for patients with atrioventricular (AV) block, where the electrical signals between the atria and ventricles are disrupted.
By synchronizing the contractions, a dual-chamber pacemaker ensures efficient blood flow and reduces symptoms like fatigue and dizziness.
A biventricular pacemaker, also known as a cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device, has three leads that connect to the right atrium, right ventricle, and left ventricle. We use this type of pacemaker for patients with heart failure and severe arrhythmias.
By coordinating the contractions of both ventricles, a biventricular pacemaker improves the heart's efficiency and eases symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath and swelling in the legs.
Adjusting to life with a pacemaker involves some changes, but it significantly improves quality of life for many. Here are key points to consider:
After we program your pacemaker, we can monitor the device and your heart health remotely. The pacemaker transmits real-time data, allowing us to:
This continuous monitoring helps us make sure any irregularities or issues are detected promptly.
Attend regular checkups with your Pinnacle Healthcare System provider so we can be sure the pacemaker is working correctly and so we address any concerns or questions you may have.
To manage your condition effectively, follow our recommendations about lifestyle adjustments:
If you or a loved one needs a pacemaker, trust our experts at Pinnacle Healthcare System to provide compassionate, comprehensive care.
Schedule a consultation with a board-certified cardiologist at our Hollywood or Pembroke Pines, Florida, location and learn more about how pacemakers can help you maintain a healthy heart.
