PACEMAKER IMPLANTATION | HOW LONG DOES THE SURGERY TAKE?

If you or someone you care about is up for a pacemaker surgery, it is quite natural to have questions about the process. One of the most frequently asked questions is the timeline; “How long does the pacemaker implantation surgery actually take?” We are here with your answer.

How Long Does Pacemaker Implantation Take?

The procedure of implantation is relatively uncomplicated. It is typically performed under the effect of local anesthesia; this means that you will remain conscious throughout the procedure but won’t feel a thing.

If we talk about the average timeline, a pacemaker surgery takes no longer than an hour. However, if you are opting for a biventricular pacemaker that comes with three leads or have to combine a regular one with other heart surgeries, the duration might extend. Other than that, if you add a recovery period after implantation, you will most likely spend the night in the hospital and take a day of rest to ensure a smooth recovery.

Preparing for Pacemaker Surgery

A pacemaker device is a small battery-operated gadget that is placed under the skin in the muscle near your collarbone. It is then connected to a wire, carefully passing over a blood vessel to reach your heart.

Expect a preoperative assessment before the actual surgery. During this, your cardiologist will thoroughly check to ensure your fitness for the procedure. In this meeting, you can freely discuss anything about the operation and clarify lingering questions. Various tests, such as blood tests and an electrocardiogram (ECG), are conducted to jot down crucial information about your health and heart condition.

Types of Pacemaker Surgeries

  1. Catheter-Based Approach: When the cardiologists select leadless pacemakers for single-chamber heart conditions, they insert a catheter into an artery. The placement needs an entrance near the groin, threading it up to the heart and attaching it to the heart’s wall.
  2. Transvenous (Through a Vein): This method is commonly used in adults. It involves making a small incision to access a vein near the heart, which is usually found beneath the collarbone. With the help of fluoroscopy, a type of X-ray, they thread wires through the vein, attaching them to a point in the heart. Then, the device is placed under the skin of the upper chest.
  3. Surgical-Based: As the name suggests, surgical intervention means a small chest incision through which the leads go through and attach to the heart. The pacemaker is then placed in a pocket-type space under the skin of the abdominal area. Catheter-based procedures can take as long as an hour or even less; on the other hand, transvenous and surgical-based approaches may take between 2-5 hours.

Life Expectancy with a Pacemaker

The life expectancy of anyone with a pacemaker inside is dependent on various factors, primarily age and existing health conditions. If you have fewer or fewer health concerns, expect to enjoy a longer and more normal life expectancy after pacemaker implantation.

Closing Note

Learning about the process of pacemaker implantation can help you understand more about the duration of this surgery. At Atrial Fibrillation Centers of America, Dr. Shanti Bansal – board certified in Internal Medicine (2010), Nuclear Cardiology (2011), and Electrophysiology (2013), and the team makes sure to deal with all aspects of your cardio needs. You can consult us at (832) 478-5067 or give us a visit in Houston, TX, for more questions or queries.

LIVING WITH A PACEMAKER | THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT DO

Living with a pacemaker is a life-altering experience. Its presence ensures your heart beats at the right rhythm all the time. However, you must know about certain restrictions that tag along with its use and take all the precautionary measures instructed by your cardiologist to maintain its optimal functionality. Let’s take a detailed look at 11 things you can’t do while having a pacemaker inside.

11 Things You Can’t Do with a Pacemaker

Many myths surround precautions, which can be confusing. The good news is that we have compiled a comprehensive list of DON’Ts that can greatly help.

Living with a Pacemaker

1. Use Cellular Phones

It may come as a shock, but modern home appliances such as microwave ovens are generally safe for pacemaker users. However, one must be cautious with cellular phones, which are always with us. Keep your phone at least 6 inches away from the pacemaker to avoid any hindrance to its function.

2. Play with Magnets

Just like phones, magnets can disrupt a pacemaker’s function if they come near. The best distance is more than 6 inches to prevent any issues.

3. Stand under Anti-Theft Detectors

You are very well aware of the anti-theft detectors in the stores. They emit electromagnetic signals when you pass through them. While they are generally considered safe, avoid stopping while walking through them to prevent momentary interference with your pacemaker. Keep moving, and you will experience no problems.

4. Radiation Therapy

Cancer patients who are scheduled for radiation therapy must exercise caution. Radiation is extremely powerful and may damage the circuit of one’s pacemaker. However, if there is no other option, ensure the pacemaker is shielded for protection.

5. Use Arc Welders and Chainsaws

Arc welders and chainsaws are quite strong. Their use may put unnecessary strain on the pacemaker and make it dysfunctional. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from using these tools and seek professional help for such jobs.

6. Perform Strenuous Activities

While an active lifestyle is highly encouraged, overdoing it is not the best approach, especially for people with heart conditions.

7. Be in Electromagnetic Fields

Pacemakers use electric signals to work; therefore, being close to strong electromagnetic fields can deviate from their function.

8. Use Heavy Machinery

As mentioned earlier, heavy machinery can take a toll on your heart health. The pressure it puts on your heart makes it difficult for the pacemaker to keep up with the irregularities.

9. Lift Heavy Objects

In addition to machinery, lifting heavy objects, like a heavy purse or even pets, should be avoided to ensure the pacemaker’s safety. You can live with petting your buddy at a distance for the time you have this machine inside you.

10. Play Contact Sports

Sports games that involve close physical contact, such as volleyball or basketball, can damage the pacemaker.

11. Touch the Surgical Site

Steer clear from rubbing or touching your chest area around or near the incision site.

Closing Note

Living with a device that helps your heart beat like a pacemaker requires a thoughtful approach to daily activities. By staying well aware of risks and taking necessary precautions, your pacemaker will continue to do its job effectively. Some of the precautionary measures include At Atrial Fibrillation Centers of America, Dr. Shanti Bansal – board certified in Internal Medicine (2010), Nuclear Cardiology (2011), Cardiology (2011), and Electrophysiology (2013), and the team makes sure to deal with all aspects of your cardio needs. You can consult us at (832) 478-5067 or give us a visit in Houston, TX.

PACEMAKER VS. DEFIBRILLATOR – ARE THEY ANY DIFFERENT?

Pacemakers and defibrillators are devices that play a crucial role in managing the rhythm of your heart. Think of them as your aid to a happy and tension-free life. Many people think that both devices are the same, and if you are also one of those, then this blog is a perfect piece of reading for you. Pacemaker vs defibrillator – are they any different from one another?

Pacemakers

Both pacemakers vs defibrillators manage heart rhythm, but the main difference lies in their function – the way they do it. The difference between a pacemaker and a defibrillator is that pacemakers send in frequent and constant subtle electrical signals to regulate the heartbeat, unlike a defibrillator, which is used in an emergency situation.

When Is A Pacemaker Required?

A pacemaker is a tiny device implanted under the skin of the upper chest area. Its job is to detect changes in your heart’s function. Whenever your heart is beating in an abnormal way, such as too rapidly or in an unusual rhythm, it sends a signal to it to make it normal. Your doctor may prescribe you a pacemaker if your heart has developed too slow or erratic movements. Other than that, if you take certain medications that can slow your heart rate or if you have had an ablation, this device is perfect for controlling your heart rhythm.

Defibrillators

Now, when we mention defibrillators or ICDs (Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators), we emphasize their emergency use. They are also implanted under your skin, but they only come into action when your heart faces a serious crisis.

When is a Defibrillator Used?

As mentioned earlier, defibrillators can be considered as your heart’s emergency response system. Their job is to monitor your heart activity very closely, sitting comfortably, ready to leap into action when things go haywire. If the lower chambers of your heart, known as the ventricles, start functioning abnormally, endangering your life in any way, the defibrillator steps in to save you.

Do You Need Both A Pacemaker and A Defibrillator?

Now, you might have this question rummaging in your mind if you need both a pacemaker and a defibrillator. The answer is not that simple, as it totally depends on your case. In some situations, yes. You can use both. If your heart condition needs constant monitoring and fine-tuning of its natural rhythm and you are also at a high risk of having a heart attack, your doctor may ask you to get both devices. The good news is that some newer devices are even a combination of the two, having the functions of a pacemaker and an ICD, offering you the best of both worlds.

Safety First

Usually, implanting these devices is generally considered quite safe, but like any medical procedure, some risks are involved. A few on the top of our list include the possibility of developing an infection, damage to blood vessels, blood clots, or a punctured or collapsed lung. However, the potential benefits of having a pacemaker or ICD outweigh these risks.

Closing Note

All in all, pacemakers and defibrillators serve as a protector for your heart by keeping its rhythm in check. Defibrillators swoop in to save the day when there is a life-threatening situation. On the other hand, a pacemaker helps your heart work normally every day. You can rely on Atrial Fibrillation Centers of America to render their services to save your heart. Talk to us now at (832) 478-5067 or pay us a visit at 13325 Hargrave Rd. Suite 280, Houston, TX 77070.

TOP 10 EFFECTS OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION ON YOUR BODY

Atrial fibrillation or commonly referred to as (AFib), is an electrical disorder that affects your heart chamber, the atria. When your heart is buzzing with mismatched electrical impulses, it produces various effects on the human body, and in this blog, we have discussed the top 10 effects that it shows.

The Impact of AFib on Your Body

Here is a list of the most common side effects seen in people with atrial fibrillation.

  1. Lightheadedness
    When your heart changes its rhythm, it affects the blood pressure and blood flow, which results in a feeling of lightheadedness and dizziness.
  2. Shortness of Breath
    Fluid buildup in the lungs because of atrial fibrillation is a common occurrence that causes shortness of breath. This situation can make even simple activities like walking feel tiring, leaving you in dire need of catching a breath.
  3. Muscle Weakness
    In this condition, your heart fails to pump blood effectively throughout the body, which affects you negatively. Everyday tasks become a challenge, and you are left with little to no energy.
  4. Fatigue
    AFib reduces blood flow and lowers blood pressure, which causes your body to feel fatigued and wired. You may find yourself constantly lacking the energy to do anything.
  5. Slurred Speech
    A person with AFib may have an increased risk of stroke, and one of the signs to watch out for is slurred speech. If you notice sudden changes in your ability to talk, seek medical attention immediately.
  6. Heart Palpitations
    Atrial fibrillation may show up as heart palpitations. You feel as though your heart is skipping beats or racing fast, resulting in discomfort and uneasiness.
  7. Decreased Blood Pressure
    Your heart weakens in this condition, so it fails to pump blood adequately, which ultimately results in lower blood pressure. Symptoms like dizziness and fainting negatively affect your ability to work.
  8. Blood Clot Formation
    Regular blood accumulation in the atria increases the risk of blood clot formation. They can potentially travel to the brain, causing a stroke. Symptoms such as swelling in legs and flushed skin are two of the signs you must look out for.
  9. Changes in Your Pulse
    AFib, along with other issues, can also cause irregularities in your pulse rate. You may feel the vein of your neck racing, slowing down, or lacking a steady rhythm altogether. Pay attention to such changes and get in touch with your cardiologist as soon as possible.
  10. Fluid Retention
    Fluid buildup is common in people with atrial fibrillation, particularly in the lower extremities, like your legs, ankles, and feet. Swollen legs can be a visible sign of the fluid buildup caused by AFib.

Closing Note

When you observe these signs or effects of atrial fibrillation, visit a trusted heart specialist for AFib treatment. Our Atrial Fibrillation Center of America team is here to help you. Dial (832) 478-5067 to talk to us, or head to our clinic.