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Pacemaker or ICD implantation
About the service
I offer minimally invasive, day-case pacemaker implantation procedures using the latest technology, ensuring a faster recovery and quicker return to your daily activities.
I believe in providing patients with access to the most advanced solutions. My clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art pacemakers, including:
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Dual-chamber pacemakers: Stimulate both the upper and lower chambers of your heart for synchronized beating.
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Biventricular devices: Ideal for heart failure patients, coordinating the contraction of both ventricles for improved pumping efficiency.
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Conduction system pacing: Targets specific areas of the heart's electrical conduction system for more precise pacing.
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Miniaturized "Micra" pacemakers: The world's smallest pacemaker, implanted directly into the right ventricle without leads, offering a cosmetically appealing option.
What does a pacemaker or ICD implantation involve?
Most pacemaker implantations are performed as day-case procedures, meaning you arrive in the morning and return home the same day. Here's a breakdown of the key steps:
Preparation:
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You'll undergo pre-operative tests to ensure your suitability for the procedure.
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Discuss any medications you're taking and answer questions about your medical history.
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Local anesthesia numbs the area where the pacemaker will be implanted, typically near your collarbone.
Implantation:
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A small incision is made to create a pocket for the pacemaker device.
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Thin wires (leads) are carefully guided through a vein into your heart, positioned to stimulate specific chambers.
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The leads are connected to the pacemaker, and its function is meticulously tested.
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The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.
Recovery:
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You'll be monitored for a few hours to ensure your comfort and pacemaker function.
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Once stable, you'll be discharged with instructions on wound care, activity limitations, and follow-up appointments.
Home monitoring for added assurance
For additional peace of mind, we offer wireless home monitoring for some pacemakers. This allows us to remotely track your device's function and heart rhythm, ensuring timely intervention if needed.
Remember:
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Each patient is unique, and the specific details of your procedure may vary based on your individual needs.
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Open communication is key – ask any questions you may have throughout the process.
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While complications are uncommon, discussing potential risks and recovery expectations with your doctor is crucial.
What are the differences between pacemaker and ICDs?
Both implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and pacemakers are devices used to regulate heart rhythm, but they differ in their specific functions and target conditions. Here's a breakdown to help you understand:
Pacemakers:
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Function: Deliver electrical impulses to stimulate the heart, ensuring a regular and consistent rhythm.
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Target conditions: Slow heart rate (bradycardia), heart block, fainting spells due to slow heart rhythm.
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Types: Various models exist, like single-chamber, dual-chamber, and biventricular pacemakers, catering to different needs.
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Procedure: Minimally invasive, usually day-case, with the device implanted near the collarbone and connected to the heart with thin wires (leads).
ICDs:
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Function: Monitor heart rhythm and deliver electrical shocks (defibrillation) if it detects dangerously fast or irregular beats (potentially life-threatening arrhythmias).
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Target conditions: Ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF), high-risk conditions like previous cardiac arrest or heart failure.
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Types: Similar to pacemakers, various ICD models exist, some combining pacemaker functionality for complete arrhythmia management.
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Procedure: Similar to pacemaker implantation, usually day-case.
Key Differences:
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Purpose: Pacemakers regulate heart rate, while ICDs focus on preventing dangerous arrhythmias.
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Action: Pacemakers stimulate, while ICDs deliver shocks.
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Target conditions: Pacemakers for slow rhythms, ICDs for fast and dangerous ones.
