Pacemaker Follow-Up With a Phoenix Cardiologist

A pacemaker is implanted in a patient with heart abnormalities and problems with their cardiac electrical system.  A pacemaker is a highly sophisticated piece of technology that can be optimized to meet a patient’s specific needs.  The device requires routine follow-up evaluations and assessments to ensure that it is working optimally and effectively.

Different Types of Pacemakers

There are different types of pacemakers and your doctor will determine which one is best suited for your condition and specific needs.  Your doctor determines the lowest heart rate needed as well as particular settings that the device requires.

If your heart rate goes below the programmed setting, the pacemaker fires an impulse that travels to the heart, causing the muscle to contract and establish a regulated heartbeat.

There are three types of pacemakers that utilize one, two or three leads and are situated in either the upper, lower or both chambers.  In some cases the left ventricle is also included and a lead placed in the area.  Your doctor can help you determine what kind of pacemaker is needed depending on the nature of your condition and the reason for the pacemaker implant.

What Happens After A Pacemaker Is Implanted?

A chest x-ray is usually done immediately following implantation.  Your Phoenix cardiologist can assess the lungs and heart as well as the position of the newly implanted device.

Follow-up and routine check ups are necessary for the life of your pacemaker.  Your cardiologist in Phoenix will set up a pacemaker surveillance schedule with you to ensure that proper monitoring is completed.

Pacemakers are typically evaluated two months following implantation and every three to six months following.  In some cases, the pacemaker may be required to be monitored on a more regular basis.  Your cardiologist will instruct you of the proper time to have your pacemaker evaluated.

Why Should A Pacemaker Be Evaluated?

A pacemaker stores insightful information about your heart.  If arrhythmias occur, your doctor will be able to determine from monitoring the pacemaker.  If symptomatic events take place the stored information in the pacemaker can offer valuable insight for the Arizona heart doctor to review.  The cause of such events can be determined and any adjustments made if necessary. 

Another reason for regular assessment of the pacemaker is to evaluate the life of the battery. As the age of the battery increases, the status should be monitored regularly.  Your cardiologist in Arizona can help you to determine the schedule needed to assess your implanted device.

AZ Heart Doctor offers a premier cardiologist Mesa AZ trusts with a Double Board Certified noninterventional heart doctor. Most insurance is accepted, and Dr. Batres cares deeply for his patients. Call (480) 300-4646 for more information and scheduling.