A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that sends electrical signals to keep your heartbeat steady (treating bradycardia).
The Procedure Overview
Duration: 1 to 2 hours | Anesthesia: Sedation (relaxed/light sleep)
- Preparation: You receive medicine to help you relax and prevent pain. The area is numbed.
- Incision: The doctor makes a cut just below your collarbone.
- Placement: Thin wires (leads) are guided through a blood vessel into your heart.
- Connection: The leads are attached to the pacemaker, which is placed under the skin.
Note: Pacemaker batteries last 5-15 years. Your cardiology team will discuss the schedule for routinely checking the battery life.
Preparation Checklist
Planning Ahead
- The Ride: You CANNOT drive yourself home due to anesthesia. Arrange a driver.
- Documents: Bring your ID and a copy of your Advance Directive.
- Medication Review: Tell your doctor about ALL medicines, vitamins, and herbs.
Day of Procedure
- Fasting: Follow instructions on when to stop eating/drinking exactly.
- Hygiene: Shower beforehand. Do not apply lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or nail polish.
- Items: Remove all jewelry, piercings, and contact lenses.
Important: Blood Thinners
If you take medicine to prevent blood clots (aspirin or other blood thinners), your doctor may give you specific instructions to stop taking them. Make sure you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do.
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your provider before the surgery if:
- You become ill (fever, flu, or cold).
- You have questions about how to prepare.
- You need to reschedule.