pacemaker surgery: recovery, side effects, and precautions

June 06, 2022

Have you or an elderly loved one been informed that you will need to undergo surgery for a pacemaker implant? Perhaps you’re wondering about the pacemaker surgery process, or what possible side effects are, especially for the elderly.

Worry not, because our experienced staff at Embassy Healthcare will make sure that you understand everything you need to know about pacemaker surgery with the help of this guide.

The Purpose of Pacemakers

Every year, approximately 600,000 people go through a pacemaker surgery to help them regulate their heart rhythm. More than half of this population are elderly people aged 75 years old and above.

If you know a senior loved one or if you just recently found out that you will need to have a pacemaker implanted into your chest, it’s normal to want to know everything about it.

What is a Pacemaker?

A pacemaker is a small electric device that is implanted in your chest to help control the beating of your heart. It is used to regulate your heartbeat and prevent it from beating too slowly.

Recovery Time After Pacemaker Surgery

For patients who just recently had a pacemaker surgery, you’ll usually be able to do anything you want after 4 weeks since your surgery.

How Long Are You Off Work After Pacemaker Surgery?

Most people who undergo pacemaker surgeries are advised to take at least 3 to 7 days off work. Ultimately, the time you will be able to work again depends on your cardiologist.

Possible Side Effects of Pacemakers

Side effects after pacemaker implantation depend on each person. But most patients experience the following:

Infection on the pacemaker’s location
Bruising or bleeding in pacemaker’s area
Collapsed lung
Allergic reactions, specifically to dye or anesthesia during surgery
Damaged to blood vessels or nerves near pacemaker location

Pacemaker Surgery Precautions

There are several precautions one needs to consider after pacemaker surgery. Discuss the following with your designated cardiologist:

Always carry your pacemaker ID
Before going through airport security detectors, let screeners know you have a pacemaker (although they are safe for your pacemaker, the small metal can still trigger the alarms)
Avoid areas with large magnetic fields
Avoid machines with high-voltage or radar
If you are going to undergo a different surgery, inform your surgeon that you have a pacemaker
Protect yourself and your pacemaker from trauma when doing recreational and physical activities

Does Embassy Healthcare Accept Patients with Pacemakers?

Embassy Healthcare offers therapy and rehabilitation services for patients with pacemakers. Our experienced and professional therapists will work closely with you and help you with all your rehabilitation needs.

Get in Touch with Us

If you are a pacemaker patient or if you know someone who has undergone pacemaker surgery, contact us at Embassy Healthcare today so we can provide you with the cardiac care services you will need for your medical condition. We provide only the best and quality health services in line with your needs.