A pacemaker is a small device that sends gentle electrical pulses to keep your heart beating at a steady, healthy rate when your heart's own electrical system is too slow or unreliable. We offer both temporary pacing — used short-term during an emergency or before surgery — and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI), a minor procedure done under local anesthesia where the device is placed just under the skin near the collarbone.
Types
Single-Chamber Pacemaker
One lead paces a single heart chamber (usually the lower right chamber). Used when only one part of the heart's rhythm needs support.
Dual-Chamber Pacemaker
Two leads coordinate pacing between the upper and lower right chambers, more closely mimicking the heart's natural rhythm. The most commonly implanted type.
Biventricular Pacemaker (CRT)
Paces both lower chambers together to resynchronize a heart that's beating out of coordination — typically used alongside heart failure treatment, not for a slow heartbeat alone.
Temporary Pacemaker
An external, wire-based device used short-term during emergencies, surgery, or while awaiting a permanent implant.
How It Works
- 1A small incision is made near the collarbone under local anesthesia.
- 2One or more leads are guided through a vein into the heart and secured.
- 3The pacemaker device is connected and placed just under the skin.
- 4The device is programmed and tested before you're moved to recovery.
When it's usually needed
- A heart rate that runs too slow (bradycardia), causing fatigue or fainting
- Certain types of heart block found on ECG
- Temporary support during another cardiac procedure or emergency
Good to know
Duration: 30–60 minutes for implantation
Preparation: Most patients stay overnight for observation after a permanent implant.
This page is for general information and doesn't replace a medical consultation. Your cardiologist will confirm what's right for your specific case.