A pacemaker is a medical device that is implanted in the chest and connected to the heart to help control irregular heartbeats, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Different types of pacemakers treat different kinds of heart arrhythmias. Most patients can return to an active lifestyle after having a pacemaker installed. Complications are rare, but there are some restrictions that must be observed to keep the device working properly.
Surgery Risks
Pacemaker surgery is generally safe and the risk of complications is low, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. The procedure can cause a collapsed lung, punctured heart, blood vessel or nerve damage in the chest, swelling, bleeding, bruising or infection near the incision, or an allergic reaction to drugs used during the procedure.
Device Risks
Pacemakers can start to malfunction after a long period of use, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. The wires that connect the device to the heart can get dislodged or broken. The device can malfunction because other devices have disrupted its electrical signal to the heart. For this reason, patients are given restrictions on their use of some common household devices like microwaves and cell phones and told to avoid security systems, power generators, and certain medical equipment. Sometimes a pacemaker stops working effectively because the patient's condition worsens and the device is no longer adequate. After five to 15 years, a pacemaker's battery needs to be replaced. These problems may require additional surgery.
Physical Activity
After a patient has recovered from the surgery to implant the pacemaker, she should be able to resume normal activities, with some restrictions. Doctors sometimes warn patients to avoid contact sports like football or other activities that could damage the pacemaker or loosen the wires connected to the heart. Patients typically are advised to wear a medical alert bracelet at all times and carry a wallet card with detailed information in the event of an emergency.
