Pacemaker/ICD Insertion

Arrhythmia Treatments in Fremont

For serious cases of arrhythmia, a doctor may recommend having a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implanted. These devices use electricity to help regulate heartbeats and keep them within acceptable parameters. They are most commonly prescribed when a patient has a slow heartbeat or a heart block.

Washington Township Medical Foundation in Fremont has a team of skilled and experienced surgeons ready to perform these operations when a cardiologist deems it necessary.

Pacemakers

A pacemaker is placed in the chest or the abdomen and regulates the heart through mild electrical impulses. Patients who have experienced dizziness or fainting as a result of their arrhythmia may find relief with a pacemaker. This device can also make it safe for someone with heart problems to resume an active lifestyle and participate in vigorous exercise. Some newer models can even monitor breathing to release impulses with greater accuracy.

ICDs

ICDs are used to treat more serious, life-threatening arrhythmias. They are inserted below the collar bone and release electrical shocks to the heart an irregular heartbeat is detected. Most models will also record a patient’s heart rate and when it required assistance which a doctor can review and use to prescribe heart health treatments. ICDs are most often prescribed after a patient has suffered a heart attack or cardiac arrest.

The Implant Process

Pacemaker implants are relatively simple surgeries. The actual operation only takes a few hours, and the patient should only have to stay in the hospital for a day or two for monitoring. Because the pacemaker is a sensitive electrical device, patients will have to adjust to a few lifestyle changes to ensure it does not malfunction:

• Keep electronic devices like cell phones and MP3 players away from the implant
• Inform dentists and other medical professionals about the implant so they avoid using tools that interfere with the device
• Carry a card with specific information about the make and model of the pacemaker in case you need to present it to a medical professional
• Avoid football, soccer, and other contact sports that could damage the device

Pacemaker/ICD implants are available at Washington Township Medical Foundation. Our cardiology department is staffed with proven electrophysiologists who will recommend the implant to patients with severe arrhythmia.