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How A Pacemaker Can Keep A Heart Running Smoothly
When your heart muscle is working properly, it can continue beating without mechanical intervention. The sinus node generates an electrical current which travels from the top of the muscle downward. As the current travels, it triggers contractions in the muscle's chambers which pump blood. When the electrical current isn't generated properly, arrhythmias can develop. As a result, a person might experience fatigue and even loss of consciousness.
A pacemaker is a sophisticated device that is inserted into the chest or abdominal area. It performs two major functions. First, it monitors the electrical charges that are triggered by the sinus node. Second, if needed, it generates a charge to compensate for an abnormality.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at how it performs its job. We'll also explore the surgical procedure required to implant it as well as what to expect afterward.
How The Device Works
At its most basic form, a pacemaker is comprised of a generator and a lead (though most units today use two leads). The generator is a battery-operated computer that is contained within titanium. It is approximately the same size as a half-dollar, though thicker. The leads are insulated wires. One end is connected to the generator and the other end is connected to either the right atrium or right ventricle.
The leads monitor the electrical current within the heart and sends the data back to the generator. The generator's computer analyzes the data in order to determine when it should intervene and generate its own electrical charge. If it determines a need, it will generate a current and send it to the atrium or ventricle to stimulate contractions and pumping.
Understanding The Implantation Procedure
Implanting the pacemaker is a simple procedure that only requires a couple of hours. A surgeon will give a patient a general anesthesia and numb the area before making a small incision. First, the leads are inserted into a vein and threaded toward the heart. Once they have reached the right atrium and ventricle, the other ends are inserted into the generator. Finally, the generator is positioned through the incision and the opening is sewn closed.
What To Expect Afterward
You'll probably need to stay in the hospital overnight. That allows your physician to program the pacemaker's computer and monitor your heart rate. Expect to feel minor pain in the area into which the device was implanted. It is normal and your doctor should be able to recommend an over-the-counter painkiller. Most doctors will also suggest that you avoid strenuous activity for a month after the surgery.
The technology behind pacemakers has all but eliminated the risks that were once associated with them. That said, patients should limit their exposure to electronic devices (i.e. iPods, cell phones, etc.) in order to avoid disrupting their pacemaker's ability to function properly.
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