Medical Health Encyclopedia

Pacemaker

A small incision is made traditionally in the left side of the chest, and a small "pocket" is created underneath the skin. After the leads have been positioned in the heart under X-ray guidance, they are then connected to the generator.

The generator is then placed into the pocket, and the pocket is closed with sutures. Most patients are able to go home within 1 day of the procedure, if there are no other medical issues requiring further hospitalization.

COMPLICATIONS

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These are possible complications during the procedure.

• bleeding
• infection
• dropped lung (uncommon)
• abnormal heart rhythms
• puncture of heart leading to bleeding around the heart (rare)

There are only a few devices in the environment today that which can interfere with a pacemaker. The American Heart Association recommends that if you have a pacemaker, you should pay attention to your surroundings and the devices that may interfere. You should always carry identification with you that indicates you have a pacemaker.

• Most home appliances (e.g., microwave, CB radios) do NOT interfere with the pacemaker.
• Currently, cellular phones in the U.S. do NOT interfere with pacemakers, but it is prudent to keep cellular phones away from the pacemaker (i.e., do not store phone in shirt pocket).
• Arc welding equipment and equipment with powerful magnets have the potential to interfere with the pace generator.

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