Pacemaker implant
A pacemaker is a small medical device that is implanted under the skin to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. It is used to treat conditions where the heart beats too slowly, irregularly, or in an inefficient manner.
A pacemaker is a small medical device that is implanted under the skin to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. It is used to treat conditions where the heart beats too slowly, irregularly, or in an inefficient manner.
The device sends electrical impulses to the heart to ensure it maintains a normal rhythm, preventing symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and fainting, which can result from an abnormal heartbeat.
A pacemaker is a highly effective device for managing irregular heart rhythms, helping individuals maintain a normal heart rate and improve their quality of life. While the procedure is generally safe, it is essential for patients to adhere to post-implantation care and follow-up appointments to ensure the device continues to function as intended.
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A pacemaker is a small medical device that is implanted under the skin to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. It is used to treat conditions where the heart beats too slowly, irregularly, or in an inefficient manner.
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Pacemakers are commonly used to treat the following heart conditions:
Bradycardia: A condition where the heart beats too slowly (typically under 60 beats per minute).
Heart block: A disorder where the electrical signals in the heart are delayed or blocked, causing the heart to beat irregularly or too slowly.
Atrial fibrillation: In some cases, pacemakers are used to help maintain the heart's rhythm in people with this condition who also have a slow heart rate.
Pacemakers may be used to treat both chronic and intermittent arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
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A pacemaker consists of two main parts:
Pulse generator: A small metal box that contains the battery and the circuitry that controls the device.
Leads: Thin, flexible wires that are attached to the heart and carry electrical signals from the pulse generator to the heart muscle.
The pacemaker constantly monitors the heart’s rhythm. If it detects that the heart is beating too slowly or irregularly, it sends electrical signals to the heart to prompt it to beat at a normal rate.
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Preparation: The patient is given local anesthesia and mild sedation to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Insertion: A small incision is made just below the collarbone, and the leads are threaded through a vein to the heart.
Testing: Once in place, the pacemaker is tested to ensure it is working correctly, sending electrical signals to the heart as needed.
Closing: After successful implantation and testing, the incision is closed with stitches or surgical glue.
The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours and is performed under local anesthesia, allowing the patient to go home the same day or the following day.
Dr John keaney
Dr. Keaney graduated with honors from University College Dublin's medical school in 2004. During his postgraduate training, he completed two years of research at the Mater Hospital, earning a Newman Fellowship from UCD.
He further honed his expertise with a two-year fellowship in advanced cardiac electrophysiology at Massachusetts General Hospital, a primary teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Keaney is currently part of the joint College of Physicians working group on atrial fibrillation and stroke, reflecting his commitment to advancing cardiovascular care and research.