A normal heart generates its own rate and rhythm at a specialized site known as the sinoatrial node. An electrical charge that is generated at this point is spread to the rest of the heart and eventually results in the contraction of the ventricles to pump the blood. This happens in an intermittent fashion to yield the characteristic heart rhythm. When node is affected by disease this does not happen and an artificial pacemaker is needed.
The primary role of these devices in Princeton, NJ is to normalize the heart rate and rhythm. There are a number of secondary benefits as well. Fainting episodes in persons with heart disease are often treated in this manner. Such episodes result when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Other common indications include congestive heart failure (in cardiac re-synchronization therapy) and heart muscle disease (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
The decision to have the device will be made by the cardiologist. You will first be evaluated through a physical examination and investigations such as the echocardiogram and electrocardiogram. Once you have been identified as a suitable candidate, you will be prepared for the procedure. Part of the preparation includes shaving and the stoppage of any drugs and foods that may increase the risk of bleeding.
The process through which the pacer is inserted is fairly straightforward. Local or general anesthesia are used to minimize the pain. Once the area of interest has been numbed, a small cut is made on an area near the shoulder. The leads are then maneuvered to the heart through the guidance of an instrument known as a fluoroscope. This operation takes an average of 30 to 90 minutes. Antibiotics are usually administered to prevent infections.
Although the operation is considered a day case in most centers, you may have to be admitted overnight. This provides an opportunity for the heart rate and rhythm to be monitored. The frequency may have to be adjusted if the rate is either too high or too low. There are a number of complications that may ensue after the operation. They include bleeding, abnormal heart rhythms, infections and more rarely, puncture of the lung or the heart.
You will need to undergo regular medical checkups to establish that indeed the device is working optimally. The frequency of the checkups will vary depending on the condition of the patient. In general, patients have to have the device checked every 6 months. When you go goes for the checkup, a number of parameters are tested. They include the sensing ability, lead integrity and the pacer threshold.
There is no need to change lifestyle dramatically after this surgery. However, some precautions should be undertaken to avoid interfering with the functioning of the device. One of the things that need to be avoided is a strong magnetic field. Such may exist in MRI machines that are used to generate radiological images. Strong contact sports should also be avoided due to the risk of mechanical damage to the device.
Patients with the device need to carry around identification cards. The cards carry important information such as their primary symptom, the cause of their condition and the electrocardiogram tracing. Other important information include the pacer center, date of manufacture, the model and the lead type. The card makes it possible for treatment to be provided even if the patient visits a different facility.
The primary role of these devices in Princeton, NJ is to normalize the heart rate and rhythm. There are a number of secondary benefits as well. Fainting episodes in persons with heart disease are often treated in this manner. Such episodes result when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Other common indications include congestive heart failure (in cardiac re-synchronization therapy) and heart muscle disease (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
The decision to have the device will be made by the cardiologist. You will first be evaluated through a physical examination and investigations such as the echocardiogram and electrocardiogram. Once you have been identified as a suitable candidate, you will be prepared for the procedure. Part of the preparation includes shaving and the stoppage of any drugs and foods that may increase the risk of bleeding.
The process through which the pacer is inserted is fairly straightforward. Local or general anesthesia are used to minimize the pain. Once the area of interest has been numbed, a small cut is made on an area near the shoulder. The leads are then maneuvered to the heart through the guidance of an instrument known as a fluoroscope. This operation takes an average of 30 to 90 minutes. Antibiotics are usually administered to prevent infections.
Although the operation is considered a day case in most centers, you may have to be admitted overnight. This provides an opportunity for the heart rate and rhythm to be monitored. The frequency may have to be adjusted if the rate is either too high or too low. There are a number of complications that may ensue after the operation. They include bleeding, abnormal heart rhythms, infections and more rarely, puncture of the lung or the heart.
You will need to undergo regular medical checkups to establish that indeed the device is working optimally. The frequency of the checkups will vary depending on the condition of the patient. In general, patients have to have the device checked every 6 months. When you go goes for the checkup, a number of parameters are tested. They include the sensing ability, lead integrity and the pacer threshold.
There is no need to change lifestyle dramatically after this surgery. However, some precautions should be undertaken to avoid interfering with the functioning of the device. One of the things that need to be avoided is a strong magnetic field. Such may exist in MRI machines that are used to generate radiological images. Strong contact sports should also be avoided due to the risk of mechanical damage to the device.
Patients with the device need to carry around identification cards. The cards carry important information such as their primary symptom, the cause of their condition and the electrocardiogram tracing. Other important information include the pacer center, date of manufacture, the model and the lead type. The card makes it possible for treatment to be provided even if the patient visits a different facility.
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