Pacemaker Surgery

A pacemaker is a tiny, battery-powered device implanted beneath the skin near the collarbone. It helps manage slow heartbeats and stabilizes irregular cardiac rhythms.

What Is a Pacemaker?

Pacemakers are medical devices that assist the heart’s electrical system. They send electrical impulses to the heart to ensure that the chambers contract in the correct sequence with enough force to pump blood efficiently.

Types of Pacemakers

Single-chamber pacemaker: Sends signals to one chamber (usually the right ventricle).
Dual-chamber pacemaker: Sends signals to both the right atrium and right ventricle.
Biventricular pacemaker (CRT-P): Stimulates both lower heart chambers, used in patients with heart failure and poor pumping function.

Conditions Treated with a Pacemaker

Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
Heart blocks
Heart failure
Arrhythmias
Post-heart attack rhythm issues

Factors That Affect Pacemaker Surgery Cost

Hospital reputation and infrastructure
Experience of medical professionals
Type and frequency of diagnostic tests
Treatment modality
Medication costs
Length of treatment and hospital stay
Location and travel expenses
Government healthcare policies and subsidies
Medical tourism package offerings

Procedure Overview

Pre-Surgery Preparation
- Blood tests and imaging (ECG, X-rays)
- Review of medications (especially blood thinners)
- Fasting before the procedure
During Surgery
- Local anesthesia and mild sedation
- Small incision near the collarbone
- Leads are guided through a vein to the heart and connected to the pacemaker
- Pacemaker is implanted under the skin
- Procedure duration: ~1–2 hours
Post-Surgery Care
- Hospital stay: 24–48 hours
- Wound care and restricted arm movement (no lifting above shoulder)
- Pain management if needed
- Monitoring for infection, swelling, or bleeding
- Device programming and discharge planning

Long-Term Care

Avoid strong magnetic or electrical fields
Carry a pacemaker identification card
Regular follow-up visits to check battery and device performance
Lifespan: 5–15 years (battery will eventually need replacement)

Benefits of Pacemaker Implantation

Improved heart rhythm and pumping efficiency
Reduction in symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and fainting
Prevention of sudden cardiac arrest in specific patients
Enhanced exercise tolerance and quality of life

Risks and Complications

Infection at the implantation site
Bleeding or hematoma
Lead displacement
Allergic reaction to anesthesia
Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
Swelling or pain at the surgical site

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to recover after pacemaker surgery?
A: Most patients resume light activities within a few days and fully recover in 4–6 weeks.

Q: Can I use electronics after getting a pacemaker?
A: Yes, most household electronics are safe. Avoid close contact with strong magnetic fields or unshielded industrial equipment.

Q: Will I feel the pacemaker?
A: Some patients feel a small lump under the skin, but the device typically becomes unnoticeable over time.

Q: Can I travel with a pacemaker?
A: Yes. Carry your pacemaker ID card through airport security and inform personnel.

Q: Is pacemaker surgery permanent?
A: The device may need replacement when the battery runs out, but the leads often remain in place.