If your heart rhythm is too slow, giving you symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, fainting, or shortness of breath, your physician may recommend placing a pacemaker to increase or control your heart rate.
There are various types of pacemakers. Pacemakers consist of one or two lead wires and a pulse generator, or battery. They can sense your own rhythm and/or pace (deliver electrical impulses to stimulate your heart) when your rhythm is too slow. Some pacemakers can be programmed to pace faster if you are more active, such as when you are exercising, or at a slower rate if you are sitting quietly.
The procedure involves numbing the area of skin under your collarbone, and making a small incision for the pacemaker and lead(s) to be placed. IV medication may be given to make you more relaxed during the procedure, which can take one to two hours.
After the procedure, you will need to keep the arm on that side of your body immobile for a few days, and may need to wear a sling to remind you. You may notice some soreness and a small amount of swelling at the site for the first few days. Your physician will let you know when you can return to work and when to follow up with him in the office. You will have your pacemaker checked at regular intervals to make sure that everything is working properly.
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