Pacemaker Insertion

A small device placed under the skin near your collarbone

When your heart beats too slowly or irregularly, you may feel weak, dizzy, or even short of breath. This can make everyday activities exhausting. A pacemaker is a small device placed under the skin near your collarbone. It can help maintain your heartbeat so your heart can pump blood more effectively.

What is a pacemaker insertion?

A pacemaker insertion involves implanting a small, battery-powered device to help control your abnormal heart rhythms. Thin wires, called leads, are carefully positioned in your heart through a vein. These wires connect to the pacemaker, which delivers electrical signals when needed to keep your heart beating normally.

Pacemaker insertion is performed under local anaesthesia, meaning you will be awake, but your comfort will be prioritised. It usually takes one to two hours, and most patients go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.

Who might need a pacemaker?

You might need a pacemaker if you have experienced slow or irregular heartbeats that cause you to become dizzy, faint or experience shortness of breath. In addition, a heart condition that disrupts the standard electrical signals controlling your heartbeat might indicate that you need a pacemaker.

However, not all heart rhythm problems require a pacemaker. A thorough evaluation will determine if it is the right option for you.

How do I prepare for the procedure?

To ensure a smooth procedure, you may need to:

Avoid food or drink for a few hours before.
Stop or change certain medications as advised by your doctor.
Organise for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

What can I expect during recovery?

Your recovery will involve a few steps:

Resting for a period before resuming normal activities.
Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous movements for a few weeks.
Keeping the incision area clean and dry.
Going to follow-up visits to check the pacemaker’s function.

It is also completely normal to experience mild discomfort at the incision site. This should go away within a few days, but if you notice redness, swelling or unusual symptoms, contact Dr Mtwesi immediately.

Take the next step

A pacemaker can help restore your heart’s rhythm and improve your quality of life. If you have symptoms of an irregular heartbeat, schedule a consultation to discuss your options. Understanding your heart health is the first step toward making an informed decision.

Book a consultation