Defibrillator Implantation

In this procedure one, two or three wires (called pacing or defibrillating leads) are inserted through veins in the shoulder to the heart to treat slow and fast heart rhythms and coordinate the contraction between the chambers of the heart.  The leads are attached to a computer and a battery which is placed under the skin in the shoulder.

Preparation for procedure:

1. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight, other small sips of water with your medications, prior to the procedure unless instructed by your doctor.

2. Expect to stay overnight in the hospital for observation after the procedure.

Instructions after the procedure

1. Do not get the site wet for at least 3 days after the procedure.  Getting water in the incision can cause an infection at the site which could travel to the heart given the newly implanted hardware.

2. On the side with the newly placed pacemaker, do not lift your elbow above the shoulder, do not put your arm behind your back or lift anything greater than 5 pounds.

3. Do not play golf, tennis or bowl for 3 months.

4. Depending on the type of device you receive you may have restrictions on getting MRIs.

5. Speak to your doctor about other restrictions.