If your heart beats too slowly, too fast or unpredictably, not only can it leave you feeling tired, lightheaded or short of breath, but it can also put you at risk for more serious complications. Oracle Heart & Vascular offers pacemakers and defibrillator implants to help restore safer, more reliable heart rhythms, with long-term follow-up through our dedicated Cardiac Device Clinic.
What Is A Pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a small device that is placed under the skin near the collarbone. Thin wires, or leads, connect the device to your heart and deliver gentle electrical impulses when your heart rate is too slow. Many pacemakers also store helpful information about your heart rate and rhythm that your cardiologist can review over time. We may recommend pacemakers for the following conditions:
What Is An Implantable Defibrillator (ICD/AICD)?
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD/AICD) is a battery-powered device placed under the skin that continuously tracks your heart rhythm. If it detects a dangerous, very fast rhythm, it can deliver therapy, including a shock when needed, to help restore a normal rhythm. Many ICDs can also function as a backup pacemaker. ICDs may be recommended for patients who:
What To Except For Pacemakers And Defibrillator Implants Procedures
Procedures for pacemakers and defibrillator implants are typically performed in a hospital setting. While your exact plan is individualized, many patients can expect to receive local numbing medicine at the implant site or sedation. Your cardiologist will make a small incision near the collarbone and gently guide leads through a blood vessel and position them in the heart. The device is placed under the skin and tested before the incision is closed.
After The Procedure
After your procedure, your heart rhythm and vital signs will be monitored closely during recovery. Most patients go home the same day or after a short observation period, depending on the device and your medical needs.
Your care team will give you detailed instructions, but common post-procedure guidance includes keeping the area clean and dry and following instructions for dressing removal and showering. You may need to limit your physical activity while the implant heals so that the leads stay in place. You’ll need to visit our team for a follow-up appointment to check on your healing and to review your device. In the meantime, if you have increasing redness, swelling, drainage, fever, worsening pain, or symptoms such as fainting, severe dizziness or shortness of breath, please give us a call.
Ongoing Care Through Oracle’s Cardiac Device Clinic
At Oracle Heart & Vascular, pacemakers and defibrillator implants are supported through our Cardiac Device Clinic. There, we provide comprehensive management for pacemakers, ICDs and loop recorders, including both in-office checks and remote monitoring.
You may be enrolled in remote monitoring, using a transmitter that sends scheduled device checks securely to your care team. Patients with pacemakers and defibrillator implants still have periodic in-office evaluations (often once or twice per year, depending on your device and needs).
Schedule Your Appointment For Pacemakers And Defibrillator Implants
Pacemakers and defibrillator implants help the heart beat regularly and provide important monitoring and shock therapy, if necessary. For many patients who need pacemakers and defibrillator implants, they can offer peace of mind and can even save lives. To learn more about pacemakers and defibrillator implants or cardiology care at Oracle Heart & Vascular, request an appointment online or call (855) 739-9953.
Patient-Centered Care Is At The Heart Of What We Do
Oracle Heart & Vascular proudly serves the Fredericksburg and King George communities with compassionate, patient-focused cardiovascular care. Our experienced team is committed to delivering advanced treatment, personalized support and clear patient education so you feel informed and confident every step of the way. Request your appointment today and take the next step toward better heart health with a team that puts you first.
Fredericksburg
1011 Care Way, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
King George
15521 Real Estate Ave, Suite 202, King George, VA 22485