How Risky Is Inserting a Pacemaker?

Getting a pacemaker is a major decision that often raises many questions. It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit anxious about the idea of a surgical procedure involving your heart. This small electronic device is designed to help manage irregular heart rhythms by sending tiny electrical pulses to your heart muscle.

While any kind of surgery involves some level of risk, pacemaker insertion is considered a routine procedure. Thousands of people have this surgery every year without experiencing serious complications.

For most patients, the benefits of maintaining a steady heart rate far outweigh the potential risks. The surgery itself is usually minimally invasive. A provider makes a small incision near your collarbone to place the pacemaker and then carefully threads the leads into your heart. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more at ease as you prepare for your cardiac care.

Potential Problems During and After the Procedure

Most complications associated with this surgery are minor and can be managed by your medical team. These issues can occur during the procedure, shortly afterward, or while you’re healing at home.

Although serious problems are uncommon, it’s important to watch for the following:

• Bleeding or bruising at the incision site.
• Swelling near the implant.
• Infection where the device was placed.
• Damage to nearby blood vessels during lead placement.
• Lung collapse during the procedure.
• Nerve irritation near the implant site.
• Blood clots forming in nearby veins.
• Reactions to anesthesia or medications.

In some cases, the wires connecting the device to your heart can move out of position. If that happens, a second procedure may be needed to reposition the lead so the device works properly. If you experience sharp chest pain or significant swelling, contact your primary care provider right away.

Focusing on Your Long-Term Health

After the initial recovery period, the long-term risks of living with a pacemaker remain low. However, the device’s battery will eventually need replacement. Most batteries last between five and 15 years, and replacing the device typically involves a short, minimally invasive procedure.

There’s also a small chance of device malfunction or lead damage over time. This is rare, as modern pacemakers are highly reliable.

Your care team will schedule regular follow-up visits to check the battery and ensure the leads are functioning properly. If you’re managing other conditions, such as heart failure, your pacemaker care will be coordinated with your overall treatment plan.

Taking Steps for a Safe Recovery

Following your care team’s instructions is one of the best ways to support a safe recovery. You may be asked to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before surgery to reduce bleeding risk.

After you return home, avoid heavy lifting or reaching overhead for several weeks. This allows the leads time to settle securely into place. Staying active when cleared and maintaining healthy eating habits can also support long-term heart health. Many people notice an improved quality of life once their heart rhythm is better controlled.

If you’re concerned about your overall heart health, a cardiovascular evaluation can help determine whether a pacemaker is the right option. Your Baptist Health provider and care team will guide you through each step.

If you have questions or concerns about your heart health, call 1.888.530.2485, visit our provider directory to find a Baptist Health cardiologist, or take a Health Risk Assessment to better understand your heart health risks.