Leadless Pacemaker Implantation

Leadless pacemaker implantation is a specialized medical procedure aimed at regulating the heartbeat by placing a small electronic device known as a leadless cardiac pacemaker directly inside the heart. This innovative device is used when the heart rhythm is too slow, and it functions by sending electrical signals to the heart muscle, ensuring a normal heartbeat. Unlike traditional pacemakers, the leadless pacemaker does not require the use of electric wires (leads) running into the heart. It is significantly smaller in size and is particularly beneficial for individuals at high risk of infection or those with limited access to insert leads.

During the procedure, the leadless pacemaker is carefully inserted into the right side of the heart using a long, thin tube called a catheter. The catheter is introduced into a large vein in the groin known as the femoral vein, which guides it to the heart.

Prior to the procedure, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, medications (including vitamins, herbal supplements, over-the-counter medicines, etc.), family history of anesthesia problems, bleeding disorders, past surgeries, and existing medical conditions. It is especially important to disclose if you are pregnant or could be pregnant.

While leadless pacemaker implantation is generally considered safe, certain risks may arise, such as infection, bleeding, allergic reactions to medications or dyes, damage to nearby structures or organs, and the possibility of the device coming loose (dislodgement) from inside the heart.

Before the procedure, your healthcare provider may instruct you to modify or stop taking certain medications, especially blood thinners and diabetes medications. Additionally, your healthcare provider may advise against consuming over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal supplements, or other substances that may impact the procedure’s outcome. You might also receive guidelines regarding eating or drinking restrictions before the procedure and arrange for someone responsible to accompany you home from the hospital or clinic.

Steps will be taken to minimize the risk of infection, such as removing hair from the insertion site and washing the skin with an antibacterial soap.

During the procedure, an IV tube will be inserted into one of your veins, and you will be given a sedative to help you relax and a local anesthetic to numb the area above the femoral vein. A tiny incision will be made in the femoral vein in the groin, and the catheter with the pacemaker attached to it will be inserted and guided towards the heart using X-ray imaging. Once the pacemaker is securely attached to the inside muscle of the heart, it will be tested for functionality, detached from the catheter, and the catheter will be removed. The incision in the groin may be closed with tape, glue, or stitches.

After the procedure, your vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood oxygen level, will be closely monitored until you leave the hospital or clinic. To prevent bleeding from the groin incision site, you will need to lie flat in bed for several hours. In some cases, you may need to spend a night in the hospital to ensure the pacemaker is working effectively.

Your healthcare provider will provide detailed instructions for post-procedure care at home. If you received a sedative during the procedure, it may affect you for several hours, so you should refrain from driving or operating machinery until your healthcare provider deems it safe.

In conclusion, leadless pacemaker implantation involves placing a small electronic device within the heart to regulate the heartbeat. The procedure is performed using a catheter inserted through the femoral vein in the groin and guided to the heart. After the pacemaker is securely attached, the catheter is removed, and you may be monitored overnight to ensure its proper functioning.

Please note that this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and answers to any specific questions or concerns you may have about the procedure.