Name of the Procedure:

Insertion or Replacement of Temporary Transvenous Single Chamber Cardiac Electrode or Pacemaker Catheter

Summary

This procedure involves placing a small device (temporary pacemaker) through a vein into the heart. The device helps regulate the heart's rhythm temporarily until a permanent solution can be implemented or the heart's rhythm stabilizes.

Purpose

The procedure addresses abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that are too slow (bradycardia). It aims to stabilize the heart rate, ensuring adequate blood flow and preventing symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or heart failure.

Indications

• Symptomatic bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Temporary pacing needs post-surgery or during certain medical treatments
• Heart block or other conduction abnormalities
• Emergency situations requiring immediate heart rate stabilization

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a specified period before the procedure.
• Adjustments or temporary discontinuation of certain medications as advised by the doctor.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests may include an ECG, blood tests, and imaging studies.
• Inform the doctor of any allergies, especially to anesthesia.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The patient is positioned, and vital signs are monitored.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically used at the insertion site.
3. Insertion: A small incision is made, and a catheter is guided through a vein (usually in the neck or groin) to the heart.
4. Placement: The electrode or pacemaker catheter is positioned in the heart's right ventricle.
5. Testing: The device is tested to ensure proper function and adequate pacing.
6. Securing: The catheter is secured, and the incision site is closed and bandaged.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's cardiac catheterization lab or operating room.

Personnel

• Interventional cardiologist or electrophysiologist
• Cardiac nurse
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if sedation beyond local anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the insertion site
• Bleeding or bruising
• Blood vessel damage
• Dislodgement or malfunction of the pacemaker
• Rarely, heart injury or arrhythmia

Benefits

• Rapid stabilization of heart rhythm
• Symptom relief from bradycardia
• Temporary solution for arrhythmias pending further treatment

Recovery

• Patients typically stay in the hospital for monitoring for 24 to 48 hours.
• Instructions may include keeping the insertion site clean and dry.
• Restrictions on strenuous activity for a few days.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor the device and overall heart function.

Alternatives

• Medications to manage heart rhythm.
• Permanent pacemaker implantation.
• Observation and monitoring if the arrhythmia is not severe.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives

• Medications: Less invasive but may not be effective or suitable for all patients.
• Permanent Pacemaker: A more long-term solution but involves a more complex procedure.
• Observation: Suitable for mild or intermittent symptoms but not for severe bradycardia.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Mild discomfort from the local anesthesia injection, but generally painless.
• After the Procedure: Some soreness at the insertion site, managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Pain Management: Pain control measures are in place, and any discomfort is usually minimal and temporary.