Pacemakers

A pacemaker is a device about the size of two stacked half dollars. Within the pacer is a computer and battery. The pacemaker is surgically implanted under the skin, with one or two wires (or leads), threaded through veins and into the heart. The job of the pacemaker is to prevent the heart from going too slowly. The pacer can detect your normal rhythm and works “on demand”, that is, only as much as needed. The EP doctor’s clinic has a small computer that communicates with the pacemaker through the skin and allows your device to be adjusted and personalized for an individual patient’s needs. The pacemaker battery has a 7-10 year life span.

Implantable Heart Rhythm Devices

EP physicians are experts in the implantation and follow-up of pacemakers and implantable defibrillators.

St. Jude Medical Pacemaker Information

Boston Scientific Device Information

Medtronic Device Information