Obtaining a pacemaker or ICD is a smart step in the right direction for patients who have certain health conditions that impact their heart’s function and rhythm. These implants are often placed into the body and function to keep the heart doing its job each and every day. With a pacemaker or ICD, patients with certain cardiovascular issues may be able to extend their lifespan and reduce their worry of conditions such as severe ventricular arrythmias.
What is a pacemaker?
Obtaining a pacemaker or ICD is a smart step in the right direction for patients who have certain health conditions that impact their heart’s function and rhythm.are devices that are used to regular one’s heartbeat. The ICD is a special defibrillator that can help shock the heart back into rhythm as needed. These devices are battery-operated, so they require regular follow-ups to ensure they are working.
At Summit Healthcare Pacemaker Clinic, we provide:
- Implantation of pacemakers/ICDs
- Battery changes
- Replacements
- Adjustments
- Lead revisions
- Interrogations
With regular evaluations, we can ensure the device is working properly to keep the heart healthy and strong. If there are any malfunctions, our interrogators will be able to identify the issue early enough for appropriate changes or adjustments. Our staff is educated and trained on optimizing pacemaker and ICD settings to ensure function and maximize battery life.
How often should I see my cardiologist for pacemaker evaluations?
There are three phases of pacemaker and ICD implantation that patients will experience. Early surveillance is the first phase, and is commonly done a few weeks after the implantation has occurred to ensure it is functioning properly and adjusted accordingly to the patient’s needs. The second phase, the maintenance period, requires patients to visit every six to 12 months for monitoring. As the pacemaker or ICD device is nearing the end of its battery life and has reached approximately 75% of usage, a more intensified monitoring period is determined, during which patients will be visiting the office more often until the pacemaker is replaced.
Request an appointment today
At the Summit Healthcare Pacemaker Clinic, we specialize in providing patients with education and care for their pacemaker or ICD. If you are in need of an evaluation, or want to have your battery levels and functions checked, call our practice today at (928) 537-4375 and visit us at one of our four convenient office locations. We are committed to helping new and current patients with their pacemaker and ICD needs at our Pacer clinic.