A leadless (wireless) pacemaker is a great option for managing a slow heart rate. It's a tiny, self-contained device — about an inch long — placed directly into the right ventricle of the heart through a small incision in the groin. No wires, no chest bump, no visible scar!
Here are some key benefits of a leadless Show Full Answer
A leadless (wireless) pacemaker is a great option for managing a slow heart rate. It's a tiny, self-contained device — about an inch long — placed directly into the right ventricle of the heart through a small incision in the groin. No wires, no chest bump, no visible scar!
Here are some key benefits of a leadless pacemaker:
- Fewer activity restrictions after surgery
- Less likely to interfere with airport security or MRI scans
- Easier to insert and remove if needed
- Much less visible than traditional pacemakers One important thing to know: a leadless pacemaker cannot deliver shocks to stop dangerous heart rhythms. So if there's a chance defibrillation might be needed, it may not be the right fit.
The battery in a leadless pacemaker can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, and if it runs out, the whole device is replaced rather than just the battery.
A cardiologist can help figure out if a leadless pacemaker is the best match based on your specific heart needs.
June 22