Quick facts
Treatment type
Implanted cardiac device
Procedure time
About 1-2 hours
Hospital stay
Most patients go home the next day
Anaesthesia
Local, sometimes with sedation
What is it
A pacemaker is a small electronic device implanted under the skin near the collarbone. It sends electrical impulses to the heart to help maintain a normal heart rate and rhythm, and is commonly used to treat slow heart rates and certain rhythm problems.
Why it is done
The pacemaker system consists of a pulse generator, leads and lead tips. The leads deliver electrical impulses to the heart and help regulate its rhythm.
Who needs it
Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
Heart block (AV block)
Sick sinus syndrome
Fainting or near-fainting caused by a slow heart rate
Certain heart rhythm disorders
Types and options
Single-chamber pacemaker - one lead placed in either the right atrium or the right ventricle.
Dual-chamber pacemaker - leads placed in both the right atrium and the right ventricle.
Biventricular pacemaker (CRT-P) - leads placed in the right atrium and both ventricles, to help improve heart pumping.
Tests before treatment
Heart rate and rhythm
Symptoms and medical history
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Heart rhythm monitoring
Cardiac imaging where required
Type and severity of the heart rhythm problem
How it is done
The procedure usually takes about one to two hours, and many patients can go home the next day.
Recovery
Most patients can go home the next day. Light activities may resume within a few days, with full activity often returning within two to four weeks, depending on medical advice. Avoid heavy lifting with the arm on the implantation side at first, keep the incision clean and dry, watch for signs of infection, and attend regular pacemaker follow-up and programming visits. Most people return to normal activities; avoid strong magnetic fields, tell airport security about the pacemaker and carry your pacemaker identification card.
Benefits and outcomes
Restores a normal heart rate - helps the heart keep a steady, appropriate rate
Improves symptoms - may reduce dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath and fainting
Enhances quality of life - can improve energy and the ability to do daily activities
Safe and effective - a well-established treatment for appropriate patients
Risks and complications
Infection
Bleeding or bruising
Lead dislodgement
Pneumothorax, air around the lung
Pacemaker or device malfunction
These risks are generally uncommon. Your doctor will discuss your individual risks before the procedure.
Preparing to travel
Complete the required heart evaluation
Review medications with your doctor
Undergo an ECG and any other necessary tests
Follow instructions about food, medicines and preparation before the procedure
Arrange appropriate follow-up afterwards
How it is done
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1
Preparation
You will receive local anaesthesia to numb the area below the collarbone. Sedation may also be given to help you relax.
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2
Incision
A small incision, about 2-4 cm, is made below the collarbone to create a pocket for the pacemaker.
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3
Lead insertion
The leads are guided through a vein into the heart using X-ray guidance.
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4
Lead testing
The leads are tested to make sure they are correctly positioned and working properly.
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5
Pacemaker placement
The leads are connected to the pacemaker and the device is placed in the pocket under the skin.
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6
Closure
The incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue and covered with a sterile dressing.
Where you can have this
1 listed
What it costs
USD 5250 – USD 9950
The range hospitals publish for this treatment. Your own price is confirmed after a surgeon reviews your reports.
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What changes the price
Type of pacemaker
Device and leads used
Hospital selected
Cardiologist and medical team
Diagnostic tests
Length of hospital stay
Additional medical requirements
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