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Cardiac Device Implantation in Dhakuria

Cardiac Device Implantation

Cardiac Device Implantation in Dhakuria

Heart disorders can lead to disturbances in the electrical activity of your heart, which can cause an abnormal heart rhythm leading to either a fast or slow heartbeat. Implanting cardiac devices is a crucial treatment for heart failure and irregular heart rhythms. Devices like pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD), biventricular pacemakers, and cardiac loop recorders are inserted beneath the skin during the surgery, often close to the collarbone. These gadgets aid in regulating the electrical activity of the heart to guarantee regular and effective heartbeats. They can also place or administer shocks to maintain heart function. Patients' lives who suffer from heart disease have markedly improved as a result of this surgery which lowers the risk of major heart-related events and helps patients manage their symptoms.

FAQ's

The different types of cardiac devices include:

  • Pacemakers: This device is used to regulate electric impulses through the heart. There are three types of pacemakers: single chamber, dual chamber, and bi-ventricular.

    • Biventricular pacemakers, also known as cardiac resynchronisation devices, work similarly to traditional pacemakers but send electrical impulses to the heart via a third wire to synchronise the ventricles, or left lower chambers of the heart when they contract.                                                                                                     

  • Cardiac loop recorders are used to record the electrical activity of your heart.
  • Cardioverter defibrillator: It detects an irregular heart rhythm and sends an electric shock to the heart to bring the rhythm back to a normal pace.                                        

Your healthcare professional will decide which device will suit you, depending on the condition of your heart.

  • Before the insertion of cardiac implantable devices, you will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area. Some people may require general anaesthesia. Sedative agents can also be given to relax you before surgery.
  • Implantable devices are inserted beneath the skin of your chest. A small incision will be made near your shoulder area to place the device.
  • The entire procedure may take 1 to 3 hours. You will be required to stay at least a night in the hospital.
  • You will be monitored thoroughly before going back home.
  • The doctor will provide you with guidelines that you need to follow during your recovery phase.

You can expect the following things after Cardiac Device Implantation:

  • Initially, you will feel slightly uncomfortable after the device has been inserted. You will rapidly adjust to it.
  • Most people can get back to their normal routine after a week. However, you need to avoid heavy exercise and weightlifting for some time.
  • Following surgery, you will need to keep the incision site dry for a week.
  • You will be asked to come back to the hospital after one week to check on the healing of the incision site.

The shelf life of cardiac devices depends on various factors, like the type of device implanted, patient health, and other medical conditions. Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators usually last 6 to 10 years.

For your convenience, you can follow some protocols that will benefit you:

  • You can carry an identity card allotted by your doctor, which contains a list of your medicines.
  • During travel, when security checks are performed at airports, you may show your identity card to the security guards. They may then use hand searches or hand-held metal detectors that will not hinder the working of your cardiac device.
  • Though household appliances have very little effect on implantable devices, it is better if you avoid keeping your mobile phone very close to your device.
  • Maintain a distance from electric generators, welders, magnetic bracelets and electric blankets.
  • Some medical procedures can interfere with the device's functioning. They include:

 

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is generally not performed on patients with cardiac devices; you need to tell your doctor about the same. You can go for an MRI scan if your device is MRI-safe.
  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation(TENS): These machines that are used to relieve pain can interfere with the working of cardiac devices.

The potential risks associated with cardiac device insertion are:

  • Blood clot
  • Infection
  • Pneumothorax (air or gas in the lungs)
  • Device malfunction
  • Lead fracture
  • Lead infection
  • Inappropriate shocks
  • Swelling in the arm on the side of the pacemaker
  • Fainting

Your doctor will advise you to schedule regular follow-up appointments to check the functioning of the device. The battery of the device will be checked so that you may know when it needs to be changed. You may need to visit your doctor every 5–6 months for a regular checkup.

If you experience the following unusual things, you need to contact your doctor immediately.

  • Pus discharges from the incision site
  • Increased swelling
  • Fever that does not go away with medications
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing

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