Patients with newly implanted pacemakers are enrolled in St. Rita's Pacemaker/ICD
(Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator) Clinic and are routinely checked within
six weeks after the implant. The Clinic is there to detect any symptoms that
may suggest a problem or limitation in the pacemaker system. Pacemakers that
have been in place for six years or longer are checked every three months for
signs of pacemaker battery depletion. Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator (ICD)
checks may be done with a company representative present during the routine
check.
Trouble shooting pacemakers is done by using a compatible programmer for the
specific type of pacemaker. The programmer is used to monitor surface ECG and
to determine the patient's underlying heart rhythm. The pacemaker is interrogated
by placing a wand on the chest over the pacemaker battery. This allows the
nurse to check the programmed measurements. A computerized printout is scanned
to check for lead wire or battery failure.
Sensing or threshold checks are done yearly unless otherwise indicated. The
measurement of these settings determines the margin of safety while ensuring
the longevity of the generator (battery). The measurements checked allow for
assessment of the heart rate response to activity.
The sensor-rate program provides an overview of this sensor responsiveness.
This shows how the patient actually uses the pacing system.
To evaluate a pacemaker, a computerized print out is complied during every
pacemaker/ICD check. This is read by the physician who is responsible for following
your pacemaker care.
If problems are detected, the physician who follows you with the pacemaker
will be notified of problems with the pacer device. A chest X-ray may be ordered
to check for lead placement or fracture of the lead wire. Further investigation
of the problem will be ordered by the physician. A company representative may
be brought in to further evaluate the problem also. Reprogramming may be done
if deemed necessary or the pacemaker and/or wire may have to be replaced.
If you are scheduled to have a checkup, you should register with Outpatient
Registration on the first floor of the Medical Center 15 minutes before your
scheduled appointment. Following registration, you will be directed to the
Pacemaker Clinic in Cardiopulmonary Services on the second floor.
