Pacemaker Implantation and Battery Change
When the electrical impulses in the heart experience problems, the heart’s function can be altered. At the United Heart Institute, your heart’s function is our central focus. For patients who need a pacemaker, we offer both pacemaker implantation and battery change services for individuals across the Inland Empire.
What Is a Pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a specialized device that uses electrical stimuli to adjust your heart’s beating when it is too slow or irregular. A lead is connected from the pulse generator to the heart’s chambers. When your heart rate deviates from a healthy rate or rhythm, it will deliver an electrical impulse that will cause the heart to beat at the right pace.
How Does Pacemaker Implantation Work?
Pacemaker implantation involves a mild procedure that usually takes less than 1 hour. It involves a few key steps but always starts with local anesthetic to ensure you feel no pain during surgery. Steps include:
- Your surgeon makes a small incision on the left side of the chest.
- The leads (wires) are inserted and guided through a vein to the heart’s chambers.
- Your surgeon places the generator part of the pacemaker under the skin.
- The leads are connected to the generator.
- The incision is carefully closed with sutures to promote healing.
- You can typically return home the same day.
How Often Does a Pacemaker Need a Battery Change?
Eventually, a pacemaker will begin to lose its charge after releasing its electric pulses. Most pacemaker batteries will last for years, with an average life of 6 to 10 years. The factors that most affect a battery’s charge include the type of pacemaker and the frequency at which it releases electric stimulation. You will need regular checkups to monitor your battery’s life to know when it is time for a replacement. However, some modern pacemakers have an alert system that notifies you via a vibration or beep about a low battery.
What Is the Pacemaker Battery Change Like?
Replacing a pacemaker battery unit is even simpler than your initial pacemaker surgery. Most of the details will remain much the same, except the leads will not need to be inserted again. Instead, your surgeon will only access the generator through a small incision and simply replace the battery unit.
Learn About Your Treatment Options
Contact the United Heart Institute for a range of heart health services, including pacemaker implantation and battery replacement. Our skilled heart specialists are proud to serve the Inland Empire through patient-centric care, safe procedures, and a compassionate approach.
Connect With Us Today
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United Heart Institute
Phone: 909.500.8683
Fax: (909) 931-1294
685 North 13th Avenue, Upland
California 91786, United States
