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Pacemaker Surgery in Kolkata
Heart conditions such as heart block, arrhythmias, and other severe cardiac complications can result in abnormal heart rhythms. These conditions may lead to symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or fainting. A pacemaker is often recommended in such cases to help regulate the heartbeat. At Kothari Medical Centre, pacemaker surgery is performed by experienced cardiologists who thoroughly evaluate each patient’s condition before proceeding with the procedure. Our priority is patient well-being, and with a dedicated, skilled team, we ensure that our patients can return to their daily activities with improved heart function and peace of mind.
Procedure Type
Minimally Invasive
Specialty
Cardiology
Body Location
The Heart
Alternate Name
Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA)
What is Pacemaker Surgery?
Pacemaker surgery involves implanting a small medical device called a pacemaker into the chest to help manage abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
A pacemaker consists of a battery, a circuit, and one or more electrical leads that are placed in the heart chambers. The device generates electrical impulses to stimulate the heartbeat, ensuring a regular rhythm. Depending on the patient’s condition, the pacemaker can speed up, slow down, or stabilize the heartbeat.
Before the Procedure
- Routine blood tests ensure the patient is fit for surgery.
- Patients receive a briefing on the procedure and what to expect post-surgery.
- IV sedatives are administered to keep the patient comfortable.
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the chest area where the incision is made.
During the Procedure
- A small incision is made in the chest.
- Leads are inserted into a major vein and guided to the heart using X-ray imaging.
- Electrodes are attached to the heart muscle, and the leads are connected to the pulse generator.
- The pacemaker is placed under the skin near the collarbone, and the incision is closed with sutures.
- The pacemaker is tested before the procedure is completed.
After the Procedure
- Patients remain in the hospital for observation for up to two days.
- Pain relief medication is provided for post-surgical discomfort.
- Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for the first month.
- Patients should avoid applying pressure to the pacemaker site. Benefits of Pacemaker Surgery
Benefits of Pacemaker Surgery
- Restores normal heart function
- Reduces symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue
- Prevents life-threatening arrhythmias
- Enhances overall quality of life
- Lowers risk of heart failure complications
- Increases exercise tolerance
- Reduces hospitalizations
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Provides a long-lasting solution
- Offers peace of mind
Risks and Complications of Pacemaker Surgery
Swelling and infection – Common post-surgical complications.
Blood clots – Treated with anticoagulant medication.
Pacemaker malfunction – Rare but may cause dizziness or fainting.
Bleeding or bruising – Can occur due to small blood vessel damage.
Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung) – Accidental lung puncture, which may require intervention.
Lead dislodgement – May necessitate repositioning.
Allergic reaction to anesthesia or device materials – Managed with medication.
Heart perforation – A rare but serious complication requiring immediate intervention.
Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung) – Accidental lung puncture, which may require intervention.
Device shifting – May require surgical adjustment.
Electrical interference from devices – Strong electromagnetic fields may disrupt function.
Psoriasis Treatment
Dermatologists provide psoriasis treatments, which may include topical therapies, light therapy (phototherapy), or oral drugs.
Hair and Scalp Disorders
Evaluation and therapy are offered for ailments such alopecia (hair loss), dandruff, and scalp infections.
Nail Disorders
Dermatologists diagnose and treat nail problems such as fungal infections, ingrown toenails, and nail psoriasis.
Cosmetic dermatology
Aesthetic procedures such laser resurfacing, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and Botox are offered.
Acne Treatment
Dermatologists offer a variety of acne treatments, such as topical creams, oral drugs, and surgical procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy.
Eczema and Dermatitis Management
Patients with eczema and dermatitis can receive treatment plans that may include prescription creams, lifestyle recommendations, and allergy testing.
Acne Treatment
Dermatologists offer a variety of acne treatments, such as topical creams, oral drugs, and surgical procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy.
Eczema and Dermatitis Management
Patients with eczema and dermatitis can receive treatment plans that may include prescription creams, lifestyle recommendations, and allergy testing.
Dermatologic Surgery
Dermatologists also undertake Mohs surgery, a specialized method for removing skin cancer, as well as surgical techniques to remove skin growths, cysts, and skin cancer lesions.
Wound Care
Dermatologists help manage chronic wounds or ulcers, especially when they are caused by skin disorders like diabetic ulcers.
Allergy Testing
Patch testing is a procedure doctors use to find potential allergens causing dermatitis in patients with suspected allergic skin disorders.
Pediatric Dermatology
Pediatric dermatology offers specialized treatment for kids with skin issues such eczema, birthmarks, and genetic skin problems.
Laser and Light Therapies
Dermatologists utilize lasers and light-based therapies for a variety of skin conditions, including tattoo removal, scar treatment, and skin rejuvenation.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screening
Testing and care for STIs including syphilis and herpes that show symptoms on the skin are also offered.
Cosmetic Consultations
Dermatologists offer consultations to go through and suggest skincare regimens and items that are specific to each patient's skin type and issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Single-chamber: Signals go to one chamber.
- Dual-chamber: Signals go to both the upper and lower right chambers.
- Biventricular: Stimulates both lower chambers, improving heart failure symptoms.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks.
- Stay away from strong electromagnetic fields.
- Attend regular follow-ups with your doctor.
Yes, a new leadless pacemaker is available, inserted via a vein in the groin and placed directly in the heart chamber.
The battery lasts between 5 to 12 years. When replacing the battery, only the pulse generator is changed, making the recovery faster.
Life expectancy varies depending on age, severity of heart condition, and overall health. Many patients live normal or near-normal lives post-surgery.
Move away from the source and check for symptoms like dizziness or irregular heartbeat. Contact your doctor if symptoms persist.
Travel is generally safe a few weeks post-surgery. Always carry your pacemaker ID card and inform airport security about your device.
Most patients do not feel the pacemaker. If you notice unusual sensations, discuss them with your doctor.
Types of Pacemakers
Single-chamber pacemaker
Sends signals to one heart chamber.
Dual-chamber pacemaker
Sends signals to both the upper and lower heart chambers.
Biventricular pacemaker
Stimulates both lower chambers for patients with heart failure.
Conditions Treated with Pacemaker Surgery
Neurocardiogenic Syncope (Vasovagal Syncope)
A condition causing sudden drops in heart rate and blood pressure, often triggered by stress or certain body positions, leading to fainting.
Heart Block
A condition where electrical signals from the atria (upper chambers) do not properly reach the ventricles (lower chambers). The types of heart block include:
- First-degree – Delayed but not blocked signals; may not require a pacemaker.
- Second-degree – Some signals fail to reach the ventricles, causing missed beats.
- Third-degree (complete heart block) – No signals reach the ventricles, necessitating a pacemaker.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) with Slow Heart Rate
AFib is an irregular, often rapid heart rate that can sometimes result in a slow pulse, leading to palpitations, fatigue, and lightheadedness.
Sick Sinus Syndrome
A disorder where the heart’s natural pacemaker (sinus node) malfunctions, causing slow heart rhythms, heartbeat pauses, or alternating fast and slow heart rates (tachy-brady syndrome).
Heart Failure with Risk of Cardiac Arrest (Biventricular Pacemaker)
Patients with heart failure may experience uncoordinated contractions between the ventricles, reducing blood flow efficiency. Symptoms include swelling, fatigue, breathlessness, and low exercise tolerance.
Long QT Syndrome
A rare condition that affects the heart’s electrical system, causing irregular heartbeats and increasing the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Bradycardia
An abnormally slow heart rate (below 60 beats per minute), leading to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and fainting.
At Kothari Medical Centre, we are committed to providing the best cardiac care. If you have any concerns regarding pacemaker surgery, consult our expert cardiologists for personalized guidance.