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Risks
By Mayo Clinic staffComplications from having surgery to implant your pacemaker are uncommon, but could include:
- Infection where the pacemaker was implanted
- Allergic reaction to the dye or anesthesia used during your procedure
- Swelling, bruising or bleeding at the generator site, especially if you are taking blood thinners
- Damage to your blood vessels or nerves near the pacemaker
- Collapsed lung
- Puncture of your heart muscle, which can lead to bleeding into the lining (pericardium) of your heart and may require emergency medical care
Life-threatening complications of pacemaker implantation are rare.
References
- Pacemaker. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/pace/pace_all.html. Accessed July 28, 2010.
- Saxon LA, et al. Overview of cardiac pacing in heart failure. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed July 28, 2010.
- Pacemaker (dual chamber) animation. American Heart Association. http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3057329. Accessed July 28, 2010.
- Hayes DL. Indications for permanent cardiac pacing. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed July 28, 2010.
- Olshansky B. Temporary cardiac pacing. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed July 28, 2010.
- Living with your pacemaker. American Heart Association. http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=24. Accessed July 28, 2010.
- Lampert R, et al. HRS expert consensus statement on the management of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in patients nearing end of life or requesting withdrawal of therapy. Heart Rhythm. 2010;In press. Accessed July 13, 2010.
- Bharadwaj P, et al. Ethical considerations of patients with pacemakers. American Family Physician. 2008;78:398.
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