Biventricular Pacemaker (cont.)
In this Article
- Biventricular pacemaker introduction
- What is a biventricular pacemaker?
- Who is a candidate for a biventricular pacemaker?
- My doctor recommends combination ICD and pacemaker therapy. Why?
- How do I prepare for the biventricular pacemaker implant?
- What happens during the pacemaker implant?
- A closer look at what happens during the endocardial approach
- What happens after the pacemaker is implanted?
- When will I be able to go home after getting the pacemaker?
- How do I care for my wound?
- When will I be able to perform my normal activities after getting the pacemaker?
- How often do I need to get my pacemaker checked?
- How long will my pacemaker last?
- How will I know if my pacemaker needs to be changed?
- Find a local Cardiologist in your town
How Long Will My Pacemaker Last?
Regular pacemakers usually last 4-8 years. Biventricular pacemakers that are combined with an ICD and do not tend to last as long (about 2-4 years).
How Will I Know If My Pacemaker Needs to Be Changed?
After getting a pacemaker, you will need to follow up with the doctor and nurses in a pacemaker clinic and through phone check-ups. This will allow them to monitor your pacemaker's function and anticipate when it will need to be changed.
Resynchronization therapy is only one part of a comprehensive heart failure management program. Device and/or surgical therapy, when combined with taking medications, following a low-sodium diet, making lifestyle changes, and following up with a heart failure specialist, will help you decrease symptoms and live a more active life. Your doctor will help determine what treatment options are best for you.
SOURCE:
The Cleveland Clinic.
Reviewed by Robert J Bryg, MD on January 24, 2008
Portions of this page © Cleveland Clinic 2008
Last Editorial Review: 1/24/2008
© 2005-2013 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
Source article on WebMD
http://www.medicinenet.com/biventricular_pacemaker/article.htm
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