A pacemaker is a small device that keeps the heartbeat from becoming too slow. It senses the heart's rhythm and sends tiny electrical impulses when needed. It is advised for slow heart rates, heart block and some causes of fainting, where the heart's natural system fails to conduct signals.

Patients looking for a cardiologist in Kandivali for a slow heartbeat at Apex are assessed with ECG, Holter monitoring and sometimes exercise testing, which show the rhythm over time. Pacing can be temporary, using a wire connected to an external unit during an emergency, or permanent, using an implanted device.

A permanent pacemaker is put in place with local anaesthesia and, if necessary, sedation. A small cut is made below the collarbone, one or two leads are guided through a vein into the heart, and the generator is placed in a pocket under the skin. The procedure takes about one to two hours. Patients usually go home within a day or two, and they are advised to limit vigorous arm movements on the device side for several weeks.

How the Procedure Can Help

A pacemaker prevents fainting and fatigue from a slow rhythm and allows people to return to normal activity.

Risks and Considerations

Risks include infection, bleeding or bruising at the pocket, lead movement, air leak into the chest and, rarely, damage to the heart. Fever, redness, swelling, hiccups, dizziness or fainting afterwards needs urgent review. Regular device checks are essential, and the battery is replaced when it runs low, typically after many years.