Pacemaker Insertion

What is an Pacemaker Insertion?

An artificial pacemaker is a small medical device that delivers electrical impulses to regulate the beating of the heart. The most common reason for requiring a pacemaker is when the heart rate is too slow (bradycardia). This may occur because the heart’s natural pacemaker is not generating signals quickly enough, or because there is a blockage in the heart’s electrical conduction system.

Modern pacemakers can be checked externally, and the pacing settings can be adjusted at any time by your Cardiologist if required.

Pacemakers are inserted by a Cardiologist in a Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory.

What to expect before your procedure

Please note this booklet provides general information about your procedure. The hospital booking team will contact you prior to your procedure with personalised instructions specific to your medical history.

Before

Your Cardiologist may request a blood test.

You may be asked to stop taking some medications.

You are required to fast for 6 hours prior to your procedure.

Please pack an overnight bag should you be required to stay overnight for observation.

You must stop taking the following blood-thinning medications 48 hours before your procedure:

Apixaban (Eliquis)

Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)

Dabigatran (Pradaxa)

If you are taking Warfarin, please inform the team and personalised advice will be provided.

On the day of your procedure

Make transport arrangements to and from the hospital as you won’t be able to drive after the procedure.

Arrive at the Hospital at least two hours prior to your procedure.

During the procedure

The procedure is performed in a Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory.

You will receive local anaesthetic at the insertion site (usually below the collarbone).

A small incision is made to allow the pacemaker leads (wires) to be guided into a vein and positioned within the heart using imaging guidance.

The leads are connected to the pacemaker device, which is placed under the skin.

The device is tested to ensure correct function.

The incision is then closed.

The procedure typically takes between one and two hours.

Post procedure care & discharge information

If you are discharged on the same day as your procedure, ensure someone is able to stay overnight with you.

A full report will be sent to your Doctor regarding the results of your procedure.

Drink plenty of fluids to promote recovery.

Do not drive for 48 hours after your procedure.

Do not participate in strenuous activities such as; sports, housework, heavy lifting etc for at least 2 days.

Mild discomfort at the site is common.

Contact our rooms on 08 9389 8658 to book a post procedure follow up for 4 to 6 weeks’ time (or according to the instructions given to you by your cardiologist).

Important information

Please seek URGENT medical care by visiting your closest Emergency Department if you experience any of the following:

Chest pain or shortness of breath that does not go away with rest

Fever or chills

Bleeding or new bruising or swelling at the incision/catheter site

Light headedness or vision impairments.

Increasing pain or discomfort.

Any feeling of numbness, tingling, change in skin colour or weakness that develops in your legs.

Important Contact Information

Should you have any queries relating to your procedure, patient care or hospital admission, please contact our office on:
p. 08 9389 8658 – press option 1 and 2
OR
email: hospital.bookings@accesscardiology.com.au