Implantation of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices
The following specially designed devices can be implanted in patients to help control and monitor irregular heartbeats:
- Permanent pacemaker
- Biventricular pacemaker
- Leadless pacemaker
- Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
- Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
A permanent pacemaker is a small battery-powered device that is implanted in the chest to help control heartbeats. It helps prevent the heart from beating too slowly by sending electric signals to its upper and right lower chambers.
A biventricular pacemaker is used in Cardiac Re-synchronisation Therapy (CRT) to synchronise heart muscle contractions and alleviate symptoms of heart failure.
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is another small battery powered device that is implanted in the chest. It can detect and terminate life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia as well as continuously monitor heartbeats. Electric shocks are delivered when needed to restore regular heart rhythm.
Compared with traditional ICD, a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD) is less invasive. Implanted under the skin below the armpit, the S-ICD is connected to a sensor that runs along the breastbone. It obviates the need for intra-cardiac pacing leads and hence eliminates pacing lead/defibrillation lead complications.
A leadless pacemaker is a tiny device that is implanted into the heart through the groin. Resembling a small metal capsule, it is about 2–3 cm long, roughly similar in length to a 3A battery but much slimmer.
Unlike conventional pacemakers, it involves no pulse generator beneath the skin nor pacing leads inserted to the vein and heart chamber, thereby causing no external wounds such as chest incisions or scars. In addition, due to fewer restrictions on arm and shoulder movement following the procedure, patients can return to normal life more quickly.
Happy Valley
- Address:
- 15/F, Li Shu Pui Block,
Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital,
2 Village Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
- Service hours:
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Consultation by Appointment
- Tel.:
- (852) 2835 8910
- Email:
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- Fax:
- (852) 2892 7519
- WhatsApp:
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(852) 2835 8910
(For non-emergency cases)