Pacemaker Insertion & Surgery Sydney
Dr. Kanthan performs pacemaker insertion procedures at several hospitals in Sydney. As the first doctor to perform radiation-free pacemaker implants in Australia and an international instructor in these procedures, his qualifications and experience make him the surgeon of choice for patients across the globe.
Radiation-free cardiac pacemaker insertion in Sydney
Using a 3D mapping system and ultrasound probe, Dr. Kanthan is able to guide the pacemaker safely to their destination without the need for x-rays. As the amount of radiation produced by x-rays during heart pacemaker surgery can be substantial (the equivalent of 50-500 standard chest x-rays), this pioneering technique is ideal for pregnant women and cancer patients and has obvious benefits for all types of heart patients.
How a pacemaker insertion is performed
The actual pacemaker is most commonly inserted under the skin, close to the patient’s collarbone. The leads are then guided to the heart through the veins. Once they have been precisely located, the surgeon will test the pacemaker unit before closing the small incision where it was inserted. The procedure only takes about an hour from start to finish. After heart pacemaker surgery, an overnight stay at the hospital is recommended, so that we can make sure everything is functioning as it should.
A pacemaker insertion is considered to be a minor surgical procedure. After your surgery, you should be able to resume most normal daily activities within a few days and will be able to start driving again in 2 weeks.
For further information, please contact your nearest clinic to make an appointment.
FAQ
What is a pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a small device that is normally attached to your heart via leads. It sends electrical pulses through the leads, to control your heartbeat.
What conditions are pacemakers used for?
Cardiac pacemaker insertion is the preferred treatment for preventing the heart from going too slow..
What is the most common age for a pacemaker?
The average age of pacemaker insertion recipients is 75, however, there are no upper or lower age limits.
Is the heart pacemaker surgery a major or minor surgery?
Cardiac pacemaker insertion is considered a minor surgical procedure these days. The generator is implanted just under the skin and the leads that carry the electrical signals to the heart are guided through the veins so there is no need for open-heart surgery.
What precautions need to be taken before and after pacemaker surgery?
Pacemaker surgeons in Australia and across the globe recommend that patients refrain from eating or drinking up to 6 hours prior to the pacemaker being inserted. After surgery, the incision site should be kept dry for 5 days. With traditional pacemakers, equipment with electromagnetic fields such as power tools and welders should be avoided, as should prolonged exposure to metal-detecting wands in airports.
How long is pacemaker surgery recovery?
Our pacemaker specialist recommends avoiding strenuous activity for three months after surgery, to ensure that you are fully healed.
