Approximately three months following pacemaker implantation,
the patient returns to the arrhythmia clinic for their initial
reevaluation.
The primary purpose of this visit is:
-to make sure that there are no physical problems with the pocket
-to ensure that the patient is enjoying an asymptomatic status
-to reprogram the amount of energy used to perform pacing to a
-lower level which helps to extend the battery life.
Following implant, there is a period of maturation that must take
place between the lead tip and the heart muscle. It may take up to
2-3 months for this maturation process to be completed. During
this interval of time, higher than normal energy levels are required
to maintain appropriate pacing. Once the maturation process is
complete, the battery output can be reduced to allow lengthening
of battery life.
At the time of discharge, a representative from the pacemaker
surveillance clinic will visit the patient and provide them with a unit
that allows intermittent interrogation of the pacemaker. The primary
purpose is to check the battery status so that the patient can be
alerted in ample time when elective replacement will become necessary.
The process is relatively simple and includes a telephone call to the
pacemaker clinic. The technician will ask the patient to transmit two
rhythm strips, one with and the other without application of a magnet
over the pacemaker.
Please click name, for information regarding
pacemaker implantation.
