Cardiology

Pacemaker Battery Replacement

Batteries are devices compatible with human physiology also known as pacemakers, designed for different ailments, that enable the heart to function when necessary and do this with electrical stimulation. The energy source of each battery is the generators inside. They make electrical impulses to the heart through cables called leads on them. In some cases, batteries need to be replaced. In this article, we will examine the details about the battery and its replacement.

In Which Situations Is A Battery Inserted?

As a result of disruption of the heart rhythm and insufficient contraction of the heart, the pulse slows down more than necessary and this can cause the heart to stop. In addition, as a result of the heart’s inability to pump enough blood, complaints such as weakness, fainting, and exhaustion occur in patients. The battery stabilizes the pulse level and eliminates these complaints caused by heart disease.

How is a Battery Inserted?

This is a simple surgical procedure performed with local anesthesia. The battery is placed 2 cm below the collarbone through a small pouch that is opened under the skin. The procedure is generally completed in 45-60 minutes. The risk level is very low as battery implantation is a very common and easy procedure.

Battery Replacement

Depending on the heart condition to be treated and the type of battery, its lifespan varies between 5-10 years. When the battery life is shortened, it can be replaced. The remaining life of the battery is determined on the skin, without the need for surgery. Only the generator of the battery which life is reduced is replaced, the existing cables are attached to the new generator.

What Should Be Considered After A Battery is Inserted?

The stitches at the point where the battery is placed are removed after an average of one week. During this period, the area with the stitches should not be wetted and the arm in the direction of the battery should not be opened too much. Weight should not be carried with this arm for the first four weeks.

Battery and Daily Life

There are a few points that patients should pay attention to when having a battery:

The mobile phone should be used 15-20 cm away from the battery, the phone should not be spoken from the side where the battery is located, and the phone should not be carried in the pocket close to the battery. The radiation emitted by mobile phones can damage the battery.
X-rays can cause the program of the battery to change. Therefore, X-Ray devices should not be passed and all-metal detectors should be kept at least 15-20 cm away from the battery.
Due to the high magnetic risk, the patient must stay away from the examinations performed with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI, MRI) devices.

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