A pacemaker is a small device that is placed in the chest along with 1 or 2 wires or leads that go into the heart to help control abnormal slow heartbeats. This device will send electrical impulses to the heart muscles when it senses very slow heartbeats causing the heart to contract or beat regularly.

If there is an interruption in the electrical pathway causing your heart rate and rhythm to slow down, this may make a pacemaker necessary.

The procedure for a pacemaker implant typically takes about an hour and is performed in the electrophysiology lab or a special procedural room in the hospital. During the procedure, you will be given medication through your IV to relax you and make you feel drowsy. The doctor will implant the pacemaker and test the pacemaker and leads during and after the procedure to ensure appropriate function and make final pacemaker settings. You will stay overnight after the procedure and typically be discharged the next day.