Medical Test:
Pacemaker Or Aicd Follow-up
General information
Other names
| Where It's Done | Who Does It | How Long It Takes | Discomfort/Pain |
| Doctor's office or testing center. | Doctor, technician, or nurse. | A few minutes. | None. |
| Results Ready When | Special Equipment | Risks/Complications | Average Cost |
| Immediately or within a few days. | Telephone monitoring equipment. | None. | $ |
Transtelephonic pacemaker monitoring, or telemetry.
PurposeTo check that an implanted pacemaker or AICD (artificial implanted cardiac defibrillator) is functioning properly.
How it works- A doctor physically examines you about two weeks after a pacemaker is implanted, and again two months later. By that time, the pacing system is usually stable, and regular follow-up tests can be planned.
- After this, you should be examined every three to 13 months, depending on the type of pacemaker or AICD.
- Depending on the device, testing is also performed in the doctor's office or by using telemetry, a special telephone line that transmits information about the heartbeat and pacemaker function. This is done every two or three months until the pacemaker battery weakens; after that, the pacemaker should be monitored monthly.
- You are instructed on how to use the telemetry equipment. Otherwise, the only preparation is making the telephone call.
- Preparation for an in-office follow-up is the same as for an ECG.
The pacemaker or AICD signals and battery are checked.
After the testIf the battery is failing, it must be replaced.
Factors affecting resultsNone.
InterpretationA physician or nurse will evaluate the electronic signals from the pacemaker battery to make sure it's working properly.
AdvantagesTelemetry allows checking the pacemaker by phone without going to a doctor's office.
DisadvantagesNone.
PATIENT TIPS
- Avoid strenuous activity during the first eight weeks after a pacemaker is implanted. Use care when moving the arm on the side where the pacemaker is implanted.
- Ask your doctor about checking your pulse regularly. Take it for one full minute at rest and after exercise. If your pulse is 5 beats per minute or more below the recommended range and is accompanied by symptoms, contact your physician or monitoring clinic. A faster rate than the range is okay, but if it is more than 100 recommended beats per minute at rest, call your doctor.
- Avoid exposure to older appliances and microwave ovens that are not well insulated. Avoid frequent switching on and off of electrical equipment. Do not stand right in front of an operating microwave oven. Operating newer appliances is generally safe, but if you suspect electrical interference, move away from the appliance or shut it off.
- Avoid airport metal detectors, which can reset your pacemaker. Ask airport security personnel to physically check your person instead.
- Never have magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and try to avoid other strong magnetic fields.
Signs of Pacemaker Problems
- Original symptoms recur.
- Muscle twitches near pacemaker.
- Breathing difficulties and shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
- Dizziness and/or fainting.
- Irritation, redness, or drainage where incision was made.
- Extensive hiccuping.
- Swelling in ankles, lower arms, wrists, or lower legs.
