Permanent pacemaker implantation is a procedure used to treat heart rhythm disorders, particularly bradycardia, where the heart beats too slowly. A pacemaker is a small device that is implanted under the skin, typically near the collarbone, and it helps regulate the heart’s electrical activity. During the procedure, a small incision is made, and leads are threaded through a vein into the heart. These leads are connected to the pacemaker, which sends electrical impulses to the heart to maintain a normal rhythm.
The implantation is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the procedure is relatively quick, with patients typically going home the same day or the next. Pacemakers are programmed to detect when the heart rate falls below a certain threshold and deliver electrical impulses to restore a normal rhythm. They can be adjusted or monitored remotely, allowing for ongoing care without additional procedures.