Permanent Pacemaker Implantation

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Procedure Description

A permanent pacemaker implantation is a life-saving procedure designed to regulate abnormal heart rhythms, primarily in individuals diagnosed with bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block, or other conduction disorders. A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that delivers electrical impulses to the heart muscle, enabling it to maintain an appropriate rhythm and ensure efficient blood circulation. The device itself is usually implanted below the collarbone in a minor surgical procedure that is commonly performed in hospitals equipped with advanced cardiology facilities.

Pacemakers consist of two main components: the pulse generator and one or more leads. The pulse generator is responsible for producing the electrical impulses, while the leads (wires) transmit these impulses from the generator to specific chambers in the heart. Leads monitor the heart’s electrical activity and help the device adjust the heart rate as needed. Modern pacemakers are sophisticated devices that can adapt to various levels of physical activity, helping patients achieve a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.

The procedure is minimally invasive, often requiring only local anesthesia to numb the area where the device is implanted. Patients generally remain awake during the procedure, allowing for real-time monitoring of the device's performance as it is positioned and activated. Pacemaker implantation has become an increasingly common treatment for heart rhythm disorders, with over a million people worldwide receiving the device each year. Its durability, ease of monitoring, and compatibility with external medical devices make it a reliable option for individuals looking for a long-term solution to manage their cardiac health.

Procedure Duration

The process of permanent pacemaker implantation typically takes around one to two hours, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the individual’s heart condition and the type of pacemaker being installed. The procedure is divided into three main phases: preoperative preparation, device implantation, and postoperative monitoring.

In the preoperative phase, the patient undergoes various diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) and echocardiogram, to assess the heart’s electrical activity and ensure the device is correctly calibrated. The patient may also meet with the cardiologist and anesthesiologist to review the procedure details and understand any necessary precautions.

During the implantation phase, the surgeon makes a small incision near the collarbone to insert the pacemaker. The leads are then threaded through a blood vessel into the heart’s chambers, where they are anchored and connected to the pulse generator. After placing the device, the surgeon verifies that the pacemaker is effectively synchronizing the heart’s rhythm by conducting tests and fine-tuning settings if needed.

After implantation, patients typically remain in the hospital for a short observation period, ranging from a few hours to an overnight stay. During this time, healthcare providers monitor the patient’s heart rhythm and ensure the device functions as expected. While recovery times can vary, most patients are able to resume light activities within a few days, with full recovery generally occurring within one to two weeks.

Benefits

  • Improved Heart Rhythm Control: A pacemaker ensures a steady heart rate, helping to prevent symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and fainting.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: With regulated heart rhythms, many patients experience a significant improvement in daily activities and energy levels.
  • Increased Longevity: Pacemakers can greatly reduce the risks associated with slow heart rates, leading to a longer, healthier life.
  • Remote Monitoring Capabilities: Modern pacemakers offer wireless monitoring options, allowing healthcare providers to track the device’s performance without frequent clinic visits.
  • Minimal Maintenance Requirements: Most pacemakers require a battery replacement every five to fifteen years, depending on the type, making it a relatively low-maintenance solution.

Potential Destinations

1. Mexico


Mexico has become a popular destination for cardiac procedures, including pacemaker implantation, due to its experienced medical professionals and high-quality healthcare facilities. Major cities such as Mexico City and Guadalajara are home to hospitals with state-of-the-art cardiology departments, often at a fraction of the cost found in the U.S. or Canada.

2. India


India is renowned for its highly trained cardiologists and advanced healthcare infrastructure. Cities like Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi offer hospitals that specialize in cardiac care, including pacemaker implantation. Medical tourists are drawn to India for its combination of quality care and affordability.

3. Turkey


Turkey is an emerging hub for medical tourism, with facilities that meet international standards and highly skilled cardiologists. Istanbul and Ankara are popular for advanced cardiac procedures, offering comprehensive care packages for international patients.

4. Thailand


Thailand’s medical tourism industry is well-developed, and Bangkok is home to several hospitals accredited by international health standards. Thailand offers a welcoming atmosphere for medical tourists, making it a preferred destination for those seeking pacemaker implantation.

5. Costa Rica


Costa Rica is gaining recognition for its high-quality healthcare services and cost-effective cardiac procedures. San José, the capital city, boasts well-equipped hospitals that provide pacemaker implantations, attracting patients from North America seeking reliable and affordable treatment options.

Risks & Considerations

  • Infection: While rare, there is a possibility of infection at the incision site or around the implanted device. Antibiotics and proper wound care are essential to mitigate this risk.
  • Lead Displacement: Leads may shift slightly from their position in the heart chambers, potentially affecting the device’s performance. In some cases, a minor follow-up procedure may be necessary to reposition the leads.
  • Battery Life and Maintenance: The pacemaker’s battery needs replacement every few years, which requires a minor surgical procedure. Regular follow-up appointments help track the device’s battery status.
  • Device Malfunction: Although rare, pacemakers can experience malfunctions due to electrical interference or internal faults. Monitoring devices and regular check-ups can detect and address any issues promptly.
  • MRI Compatibility: Some older pacemaker models are not MRI-compatible, which may limit diagnostic imaging options. Patients with pacemakers should always inform healthcare providers of their device before undergoing any imaging tests.

How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital

When selecting a doctor and hospital for pacemaker implantation, prioritize facilities with a strong reputation in cardiology and experience in cardiac device implantation. Look for hospitals accredited by recognized healthcare bodies, as these facilities adhere to high standards of patient care and safety. Additionally, inquire about the hospital’s cardiology department’s success rates with pacemaker procedures and any available post-operative support services.

Choosing the right doctor is also crucial. Opt for a cardiologist or cardiac surgeon who specializes in electrophysiology (the study of the heart’s electrical system), as they are particularly skilled in handling pacemaker implantations. Ensure that the chosen professional has extensive experience, board certification, and positive patient reviews. Consulting with multiple specialists before making a decision can provide a clearer understanding of the procedure and confidence in the chosen provider.

To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote

Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?

The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.

What happens during egg retrieval?

When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment  where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.

What happens to the eggs?

In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle.  Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.

How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?

The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.

Embryoscope©

Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.

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