Pacemaker Surgery for Arrhythmia: A Lifesaving Option

Heart rhythm disorders, or arrhythmias, can be silent threats—affecting how the heart pumps blood and disrupting the body’s normal functioning. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others may lead to fatigue, fainting, organ damage, or even sudden cardiac arrest. Fortunately, medical advancements have paved the way for effective treatments, and one of the most reliable among them is pacemaker surgery. This procedure has transformed countless lives, giving patients with slow or irregular heartbeats a second chance at healthy living.

Understanding Arrhythmia and Its Risks

Arrhythmia refers to any abnormal rhythm of the heart. This could mean the heart beats too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregularly. Electrical signals in the heart control its rhythm, and when these signals are disrupted, the heartbeat can become uncoordinated.

The symptoms of arrhythmia vary from person to person. Some may feel a fluttering sensation in the chest, dizziness, shortness of breath, or experience fatigue during physical activity. In more severe cases, arrhythmia can lead to fainting, heart failure, or stroke.

While medication and lifestyle changes can sometimes help manage arrhythmia, certain types—especially those involving slow heart rhythms or heart block—require a more permanent and mechanical solution: a pacemaker.

What Is a Pacemaker and How Does It Work?

A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device implanted under the skin near the collarbone. It sends electrical signals to the heart to ensure it beats at a normal rate and rhythm. The device consists of a pulse generator and one or more leads (wires) that connect it to the heart.

There are several types of pacemakers, including:

• Single-chamber pacemakers, which connect to one chamber of the heart

• Dual-chamber pacemakers, which stimulate both the atrium and the ventricle

• Biventricular pacemakers, used in cardiac resynchronization therapy for heart failure patients

Pacemakers continuously monitor heart rhythms and activate only when needed. If the heart slows or stops, the pacemaker steps in to generate the necessary electrical impulses.

When Is Pacemaker Surgery Needed?

Not every arrhythmia requires a pacemaker. The surgery is typically recommended in cases where the heart’s natural pacemaking system—known as the sinoatrial (SA) node—fails to work properly, or where there is a block in the electrical conduction between the heart’s chambers.

Conditions that may lead to pacemaker implantation include:

• Bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate)

• Heart block (delayed or blocked electrical signals)

• Tachy-brady syndrome, a combination of fast and slow heart rhythms

• Certain types of heart failure

After thorough evaluation using ECGs, Holter monitors, or electrophysiology studies, cardiologists determine whether pacemaker surgery is the best option.

The Pacemaker Surgery Procedure: What to Expect

Pacemaker surgery is usually a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation. Here’s what the general process looks like:

1. Preparation: Patients may be asked to stop certain medications before the surgery. Fasting for several hours before the procedure is usually required.

2. Implantation: A small incision is made near the collarbone. The pacemaker leads are guided through a vein into the heart, and the pulse generator is placed under the skin.

3. Testing: Once the pacemaker is in position, it is tested to ensure it’s functioning correctly and is set to suit the patient’s heart rhythm needs.

4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue, and the patient is monitored for a few hours or overnight.

Most patients go home within 24 hours and return to normal activities within a few weeks, although they are advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during the initial healing phase.

Life After Pacemaker Surgery

Living with a pacemaker is easier than most people imagine. The device is designed to adapt to your body's demands, helping you regain stamina and confidence in daily activities. Here are a few things patients should be aware of post-surgery:

• Follow-up care: Regular check-ups are needed to ensure the pacemaker is functioning optimally. Adjustments can be made remotely or in-clinic.

• Battery life: Pacemaker batteries typically last 5 to 15 years. Replacement involves a simpler procedure than the initial surgery.

• Lifestyle adjustments: While most modern pacemakers are resistant to interference, patients should be cautious around strong magnetic fields and avoid placing phones or electronic devices directly over the pacemaker site.

• Airport security and medical devices: Always inform security personnel and healthcare professionals about your pacemaker. Carrying a pacemaker ID card is recommended.

With a pacemaker, most individuals can lead fully active lives, including returning to work, engaging in physical activities, and even traveling without restrictions.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgeries, pacemaker surgery carries some risks, though they are relatively rare. Potential complications include:

• Infection at the surgical site

• Bleeding or bruising

• Lead dislodgement

• Pneumothorax (air trapped in the chest cavity)

However, when performed by experienced cardiologists in specialized centers, the risk of serious complications is low. Patients are usually monitored closely in the days following the procedure to catch and manage any early issues.

Advanced Cardiac Care at The Heart ae

For patients seeking expert evaluation and treatment for arrhythmias in the UAE, The Heart ae offers advanced cardiac care, including pacemaker implantation. With a team of leading electrophysiologists, state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, and compassionate aftercare, The Heart ae ensures patients receive the highest standard of care every step of the way. Their patient-first approach combines precision, safety, and comfort—making it a trusted name in the field of heart rhythm management.

Conclusion

Pacemaker surgery is more than just a medical procedure—it’s a gateway to restored health, improved quality of life, and peace of mind for those battling dangerous heart rhythms. If you or a loved one is living with arrhythmia and experiencing symptoms that interfere with daily life, consulting a cardiac specialist is the first step toward a healthier future. With the right diagnosis and timely intervention, pacemaker surgery can truly be a lifesaving option.