Pacemaker/ICD Insertion
Arrhythmia Treatments in Fremont
For serious cases of arrhythmia, a doctor may recommend having a pacemaker
or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implanted. These devices
use electricity to help regulate heartbeats and keep them within acceptable
parameters. They are most commonly prescribed when a patient has a slow
heartbeat or a heart block.
Washington Township Medical Foundation in Fremont has a team of skilled
and experienced surgeons ready to perform these operations when a cardiologist
deems it necessary.
Pacemakers
A pacemaker is placed in the chest or the abdomen and regulates the heart
through mild electrical impulses. Patients who have experienced dizziness
or fainting as a result of their arrhythmia may find relief with a pacemaker.
This device can also make it safe for someone with heart problems to resume
an active lifestyle and participate in vigorous exercise. Some newer models
can even monitor breathing to release impulses with greater accuracy.
ICDs
ICDs are used to treat more serious, life-threatening arrhythmias. They
are inserted below the collar bone and release electrical shocks to the
heart an irregular heartbeat is detected. Most models will also record
a patient’s heart rate and when it required assistance which a doctor
can review and use to prescribe heart health treatments. ICDs are most
often prescribed after a patient has suffered a heart attack or cardiac arrest.
The Implant Process
Pacemaker implants are relatively simple surgeries. The actual operation
only takes a few hours, and the patient should only have to stay in the
hospital for a day or two for monitoring. Because the pacemaker is a sensitive
electrical device, patients will have to adjust to a few lifestyle changes
to ensure it does not malfunction:
- Keep electronic devices like cell phones and MP3 players away from the implant
- Inform dentists and other medical professionals about the implant so they
avoid using tools that interfere with the device
- Carry a card with specific information about the make and model of the
pacemaker in case you need to present it to a medical professional
- Avoid football, soccer, and other contact sports that could damage the device
Pacemaker/ICD implants are available at Washington Township Medical Foundation. Our
cardiology department is staffed with proven
electrophysiologists who will recommend the implant to patients with severe arrhythmia.