Heart devices
Pacemaker and ICD: consultation and check-up
Is a device needed, which type is suitable, is the implanted one working correctly: an arrhythmologist’s advice and a device check.
If a pacemaker, ICD or CRT-D has been recommended or is already implanted, a consultation with an arrhythmologist helps to answer specific questions.
How the device is checked
A special unit — a programmer — checks how the device is working.
- Programmer
- Communication with the device
- Leads, battery and settingsThe battery runs down gradually: the time for replacement can be seen in advance.
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If the device has not been implanted yet
- an opinion on what the recommendation is based on;
- which type is suitable: a single- or dual-chamber pacemaker, an ICD or a CRT-D;
- questions about benefits, risks and life afterwards.
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If the device is implanted
- The device is checked with special equipment (a programmer): the leads, the battery and the settings.
- The schedule differs between sources: EHRA says the first check at 2–12 weeks, then usually once a year; the NHS (pacemaker) about 6 weeks, 3–6 months, then at least once every 12 months; NHLBI (ICD) at least once every 6 months. Follow your own doctor’s schedule.
- The battery runs down gradually, so the time for replacement is seen in advance at a check-up.
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Seek help sooner
If you have a fever above 38.5 °C, chills, redness or swelling over the device, the wound opening or fluid coming from it, worsening shortness of breath, chest pain or dizziness, call your doctor quickly.
Emergency help (103): if you faint, have severe chest pain or severe shortness of breath, or the ICD gives several strong shocks within a short time, do not wait, call 103.
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What to bring
Your device card, previous ECGs and test reports, and a list of the medicines you are taking.
The exact procedure, price and preparation are agreed with the doctor or administrator at the appointment.
Read more
- Heart devices: how do a pacemaker, an ICD and a CRT-D differ?
- Living with a pacemaker or ICD: phones, magnets, airports, MRI and sports
- Pacemaker: single- vs dual-chamber, implantation and recovery
- ICD (cardioverter-defibrillator): what it is, who needs it, what to do after a shock
- CRT and CRT-D: resynchronization therapy in heart failure
Other services in this area
All servicesPacemaker implantation
Single- and dual-chamber pacemakers used when the heart beats too slowly: assessing the indication, implantation and follow-up.
Learn moreICD (cardioverter-defibrillator) implantation
A device that stops life-threatening ventricular rhythms: assessing who needs it, implantation and follow-up.
Learn moreCRT-D (resynchronization therapy) implantation
A device that makes the ventricles work in step in heart failure and protects against dangerous rhythms.
Learn more
Book this service
Pacemaker and ICD: consultation and check-up
+998 97 490 86 75Specialist
Sherzod Nasirovich Sabirov