Leadless Pacemaker

What to Expect During the Procedure

• The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation, meaning you will be awake but comfortable.
• Rather than an incision near the collarbone, the device is delivered through a catheter inserted into a vein in the groin.
• The self-contained pacemaker is implanted directly inside the heart and secured to the heart wall.
• The device will be tested to ensure proper function before the catheter is removed.

Risks Involved

While leadless pacemaker implantation is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Bleeding or bruising at the groin insertion site.
• Minor bleeding at the groin site, which can typically be controlled by applying firm pressure for 30 minutes.
• Cardiac perforation, a rare complication that may require a drain to be placed.
• Device dislodgement (rare).
• Blood clots (rare).

What to Expect After the Procedure

• Minor bruising or soreness at the groin site, which may take a few weeks to resolve.
• Because there is no chest pocket, recovery is often quicker than with a traditional pacemaker.
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to check device function.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Go to the Emergency Room if you experience:

• Severe pain or increasing swelling in the groin where the catheter was inserted.
• Uncontrolled bleeding at the groin site.
• Persistent dizziness, shortness of breath, or extreme fatigue.
• Palpitations or an irregular heartbeat.

Follow-Up Care

• You will have a follow-up visit to check device function.
• Routine checks are needed to monitor battery life and performance.
• If you have any concerns or unusual symptoms, contact our office for further evaluation.