Pacemaker & Defibrillator

What are pacemakers and defibrillators?

Pacemakers and defibrillators are devices that can maintain your heartbeat and treat various cardiac conditions. You may need either one or both of them as part of your treatment plan at Heart and Vascular Clinic.

The two devices have some similarities, but aren’t quite the same:

Pacemakers

A pacemaker is an electronic device that helps your heart keep a consistent rhythm. An internal pacemaker is implanted in your body permanently, while an external pacemaker is temporary. Each includes a battery-operated generator and leads (electrodes) that extend into the heart. 

Defibrillators

Defibrillators are implantable devices that monitor the heart rate, and are positioned below your collarbone. They can detect a rapid heart rate or heart flutters and can send electrical shocks to your heart to restore a typical heartbeat. Some defibrillators also function as pacemakers, but not all do. 

What do pacemakers and defibrillators treat?

Pacemakers and defibrillators can aid in the treatment of several different heart rate problems, or arrhythmias. Dr. Balachandran explains your diagnosis to you and how a defibrillator, pacemaker, or both devices can aid in your treatment.

Pacemakers and defibrillators are specifically beneficial to those who are at risk of sudden death from an arrhythmia, which may be due to:

• Cardiac arrest in your medical history
• Reduced pumping function of the heart
• Cardiomyopathy (diseased heart muscle)
• Tachycardia (fast heartbeat)
• Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)

No matter your reason for needing one or both devices, Dr. Balachandran teaches you how to maintain them and how to avoid issues with them while going through airport security or in other situations. Dr. Balachandran also uses feedback from these devices to plan future treatments. 

How do I know if there’s a problem with my pacemaker or defibrillator?

Dr. Balachandran offers regular pacemaker and defibrillator checks at Heart and Vascular Clinic. This provides him the opportunity to detect possible problems with your devices and perform any maintenance they may need, like changing their batteries.

Depending on the types of devices you get, you may need a pacemaker or defibrillator check once every 3-12 months. Dr. Balachandran places a magnet over the pacemaker to change its work rate, which a computer analyzes. He can then reprogram your device to suit your needs.

Most pacemakers and defibrillators need battery changes every 5-10 years. The electrodes remain in your heart as the batteries are changed in the generators.

To schedule an appointment and find out if you can benefit from a pacemaker or defibrillator, call Heart and Vascular Clinic or book an appointment online today.