A pacemaker is implanted to treat bradycardia (an abnormally slow heart rate). Pacemakers can also adjust the heart rate to meet the body's needs, whether during exercise or rest. Implantation of a pacemaker involves positioning leads (thin, insulated wires) in the heart and placing the device in a pocket of skin, usually in the shoulder area. Typically the implant procedure involves only local anesthetics and a sedative, rather than general anesthesia. Most people have a fairly quick recovery after a pacemaker implant.
LifeBeat is a site dedicated to patients with heart devices, and their families. Read about living with your device, heart related news, health tips and learn about other patients and how they are leading active lives. Click here to go to the site
