Properties | Details |
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SFDA Classification | External pacemaker: Class IIb |
Purpose of Use | Pacemakers have two main purposes - regulation and sensing Pacemaker. The pacemaker sends an electrical signal to the heart through the pacemaker's wire when the heart's rhythm is too slow or choppy. This electrical signal initiates the heartbeat. Sensing. The pacemaker also monitors (sensing) the heart's normal electrical activity. When the pacemaker senses a normal heartbeat, it will not conduct the heartbeat. Pacemakers only stimulate the heart when needed. Therefore, they are known as 'wanted' defibrillators. |
Work Location & End-User | Work Location: operating room End User: Doctor, Patient |
Parts & Accessories | A pacemaker is composed of three parts: Pulse generator: A small metal box containing electronic circuits containing a small computer and a battery that regulates the impulses sent to the heart. Wire (or leads): It is an insulated wire connected to the pulse generator at one end, with the other end placed inside one of the heart's chambers. electrode: The electrode at the end of the wire touches the wall of the heart. The wire conducts the electrical impulses of the heart. It also senses the heart's electrical activity and sends this information back to the pulse generator. |
Operation | Pacemakers only work when needed. If the heartbeat is too slow (bradycardia), the pacemaker sends electrical signals to the heart to correct the beat. Some modern pacemakers also have sensors that detect body movement or breathing rate and send a signal to the devices to increase your heart rate during exercise, as needed. |
Common Problems | • Battery run out • Electromagnetic interference from certain devices such as power generators, arc welders, and powerful magnets (found in medical devices, heavy equipment, and motors) • A pacemaker lead getting pulled out of position • A malfunction in the electronic circuit caused by a break in the insulation of the wire or a break in the wire |
Manufacturers | • Boston Scientific Corporation • Abbott Laboratories • Lepu Medical Group Medtronic plc |
Sources | • Saudi Food and Drug Authority • Halton Healthcare • Johns Hopkins Medicine • NHS • Fairview • NCBI • Meticulous Blog |