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 main role of pacing devices in Princeton, NJ is to restore normal rate and rhythm. A number of other benefits can be realized in some patients. Fainting episodes (also known as syncope) are often the result of heart disease. Abnormal heart rate and rhythm may interfere with blood supply to the brain. Normalizing the rate usually helps solve the problem. Other conditions that may be managed using the approach include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure.
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.
The surgery is typically performed as a day case in most places. However, one may be admitted to allow for monitoring of the device overnight. If the rate is too high or too low adjustments in frequency may have to be made. Complications may also be identified at this time. They include, for example, bleeding, infections, abnormal rhythms and injuries to the lungs and heart.
Patients should have regular medical checkups. This are meant to help determine if the device is in proper working condition. The first full checkup should be done six weeks after the surgery. Unless complications have been encountered, subsequent checkups are then done after every six months. During the evaluation, a number of parameters have to be assessed. They include the threshold, the lead integrity and pacer sensing ability.
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.
A patient who has been fitted with a pacer device should carry with them an identification card. On the card, is important information relating to their condition such as their diagnosis, the etiology, and an electrocardiogram tracing. Other information that may be included includes the doctor who did the placement, the date of manufacture of the pacer, the model and the types of leads used. The card makes it possible for other hospitals to manage the patient easily.
The main role of pacing devices in Princeton, NJ is to restore normal rate and rhythm. A number of other benefits can be realized in some patients. Fainting episodes (also known as syncope) are often the result of heart disease. Abnormal heart rate and rhythm may interfere with blood supply to the brain. Normalizing the rate usually helps solve the problem. Other conditions that may be managed using the approach include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure.
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.
The surgery is typically performed as a day case in most places. However, one may be admitted to allow for monitoring of the device overnight. If the rate is too high or too low adjustments in frequency may have to be made. Complications may also be identified at this time. They include, for example, bleeding, infections, abnormal rhythms and injuries to the lungs and heart.
Patients should have regular medical checkups. This are meant to help determine if the device is in proper working condition. The first full checkup should be done six weeks after the surgery. Unless complications have been encountered, subsequent checkups are then done after every six months. During the evaluation, a number of parameters have to be assessed. They include the threshold, the lead integrity and pacer sensing ability.
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.
A patient who has been fitted with a pacer device should carry with them an identification card. On the card, is important information relating to their condition such as their diagnosis, the etiology, and an electrocardiogram tracing. Other information that may be included includes the doctor who did the placement, the date of manufacture of the pacer, the model and the types of leads used. The card makes it possible for other hospitals to manage the patient easily.
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