Advanced pacemaker implantation for slow or irregular heart rhythms, delivered by experienced cardiac specialists using modern technology to help you live an active and confident life.
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Restoring your heart's natural rhythm with precision, compassion, and advanced cardiac technology so you can live life fully and confidently.
A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered medical device implanted beneath the skin of the chest to regulate the heart's electrical system. When the heart beats too slowly (bradycardia), too irregularly, or fails to coordinate its chambers properly, a pacemaker delivers gentle electrical impulses to restore a normal, healthy rhythm.
The implantation procedure is minimally invasive. A small incision is made near the collarbone, leads (thin insulated wires) are guided through a vein into the heart, and the pulse generator — roughly the size of a large coin — is placed in a pocket created just under the skin. The procedure typically takes one to two hours under local anaesthesia with sedation, and most patients are discharged within 24 to 48 hours.
Modern pacemakers continuously monitor the heart and only activate when needed, adapting to your activity level and lifestyle. At Rhythm Medicity, our cardiology team selects the right pacemaker type for each individual patient, ensuring optimal outcomes and long-term quality of life.
Not all pacemakers are the same. The right device depends on the specific rhythm disorder, the chambers of the heart affected, and the patient's overall health profile.
Uses one lead placed in either the right atrium or right ventricle. Suitable for patients with simple bradycardia or certain types of heart block.
Uses two leads — one in the right atrium and one in the right ventricle — to coordinate timing between the upper and lower chambers, more closely mimicking the heart's natural rhythm. This is the most commonly implanted type.
Uses three leads to synchronise the left and right ventricles. Recommended for patients with heart failure and electrical conduction abnormalities such as left bundle branch block. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, CRT can significantly improve heart function and reduce symptoms of heart failure.
A miniaturised device implanted directly into the right ventricle via a catheter through the femoral vein — no leads, no chest incision, and no visible lump under the skin. Ideal for select patients who cannot tolerate conventional lead-based systems.
While technically distinct from a standard pacemaker, ICDs combine pacing with the ability to deliver a life-saving shock if a dangerous fast rhythm is detected. Our electrophysiology team can advise whether a combined CRT-D device is appropriate for your condition.
The heart's electrical system can be disrupted by a variety of underlying conditions and lifestyle factors. Understanding the root cause helps our cardiologists tailor the most effective treatment plan.
Age-related degeneration: The sinoatrial node can deteriorate with age, leading to sick sinus syndrome and bradycardia.
Coronary artery disease: Reduced blood supply to the heart muscle can damage the conduction system, causing heart block or slow rhythms.
Previous heart attack: Scar tissue from a myocardial infarction can interrupt the electrical pathways within the heart.
Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle can impair electrical conduction.
Congenital heart defects: Some individuals are born with structural or electrical abnormalities that predispose them to rhythm disorders.
Certain medications: Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs can slow the heart rate excessively in some patients.
Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions: Conditions such as sarcoidosis and rheumatic fever can damage cardiac conduction tissue.
Post-cardiac surgery: Open-heart surgery or valve replacement can sometimes injure the conduction system, necessitating a permanent pacemaker.
Many patients live with slow or irregular heart rhythms for years without realising it. However, certain warning signs should prompt an urgent cardiac evaluation.
Unexplained fainting or near-fainting episodes — often caused by the heart pausing or beating too slowly to maintain adequate blood pressure.
Persistent fatigue and weakness — a slow heart rate reduces cardiac output, leaving you feeling chronically tired even with minimal exertion.
Shortness of breath — especially during activities that were previously manageable.
Dizziness or light-headedness — particularly when standing up or during physical activity.
Palpitations or an irregular heartbeat — a sensation of the heart skipping, fluttering, or pounding.
Chest discomfort or pressure — which may accompany a very slow or erratic rhythm.
Confirmed bradycardia on ECG — a resting heart rate consistently below 40 to 50 beats per minute with associated symptoms.
Diagnosed heart block — second-degree or third-degree heart block identified on monitoring.
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, do not delay seeking specialist cardiac assessment. Early diagnosis and timely pacemaker implantation can prevent serious complications including sudden cardiac arrest.
While some causes of bradycardia and heart block are unavoidable, many risk factors can be managed proactively to protect your heart's electrical health.
Our cardiologists use a comprehensive range of diagnostic tools to accurately identify the type and severity of your rhythm disorder before recommending any intervention.
12-lead Electrocardiogram (ECG): The first-line test to capture the heart's electrical activity at rest.
24 to 72 hour Holter Monitor: A wearable ECG device that records every heartbeat over one to three days, capturing intermittent arrhythmias.
Event Recorder or Loop Recorder: For infrequent symptoms, a small implantable loop recorder can monitor the heart for up to three years.
Echocardiogram: Ultrasound imaging to assess heart structure and function.
Electrophysiology Study: An invasive catheter-based test that maps the heart's electrical pathways in detail.
Tilt Table Test: Used to evaluate patients with unexplained syncope.
A pacemaker is recommended when symptomatic bradycardia or heart block cannot be corrected by treating the underlying cause or when the conduction system damage is permanent. Our cardiac team follows established international guidelines to ensure every implantation decision is evidence-based and patient-centred.
Regular cardiac check-ups, especially if you have a family history of heart disease or are over 60 years of age.
Optimal management of hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, which can trigger atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias.
Medication review with your cardiologist if you are on drugs known to slow the heart rate.
Prompt treatment of infections and inflammatory conditions that can affect the heart muscle.
At Rhythm Medicity, a successful pacemaker implantation is the result of meticulous planning, experienced hands, and a compassionate care team that supports you at every step.
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation with our senior cardiologist. We review your symptoms, medical history, current medications, and all prior investigations. A fresh ECG and echocardiogram are performed if not recently done.
Based on the diagnostic workup, our electrophysiology team selects the most appropriate pacemaker type and model. We discuss the options with you and your family in plain language, ensuring fully informed consent.
Blood tests, chest X-ray, and anaesthesia assessment are completed. Our nursing team provides clear pre-operative instructions regarding fasting, medications, and what to expect on the day of the procedure.
Performed in our state-of-the-art cardiac catheterisation laboratory under sterile conditions, the procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia with conscious sedation. Fluoroscopic guidance ensures precise lead placement. The device is tested intraoperatively to confirm optimal sensing and pacing thresholds before the incision is closed.
You are monitored in our cardiac care unit for 24 to 48 hours post-implantation. A chest X-ray and device interrogation are performed before discharge to confirm correct lead position and device function. You receive a personalised pacemaker identity card and a detailed discharge plan.
Our cardiology team schedules follow-up appointments at 6 weeks, 6 months, and annually thereafter. Many modern pacemakers support remote monitoring, allowing our team to review device data and detect any issues without you needing to visit the hospital for every check.
Experienced Cardiac Team: Our cardiologists and electrophysiologists bring extensive expertise in device implantation, managing a broad spectrum of rhythm disorders from simple bradycardia to complex heart failure requiring CRT.
Advanced Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory: Pacemaker implantations are performed in a fully equipped, high-specification cath lab with real-time fluoroscopic imaging, ensuring precision and safety throughout the procedure.
Comprehensive Care Pathway: From initial consultation and diagnostic workup through to device selection, implantation, and long-term remote monitoring, every step is coordinated by a dedicated cardiac care team.
Patient-Centred Approach: We take time to explain your condition and treatment options clearly. Our team is available to answer questions before, during, and after your procedure.
Multidisciplinary Support: Complex cases involving heart failure, congenital heart disease, or post-surgical rhythm disorders are reviewed by our multidisciplinary cardiac board.
Recovery from pacemaker implantation is generally swift and well-tolerated. Most patients are surprised by how quickly they feel better once their heart is beating at a normal, steady rate.
You will rest in our cardiac care unit while your heart rhythm is continuously monitored. Mild soreness or bruising at the incision site is normal and managed with simple pain relief. You will be encouraged to move your arm gently to prevent stiffness.
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 2 to 3 kg with the arm on the side of the implant. Keep the wound dry and clean. Most patients can resume light daily activities including short walks within a few days. Driving is typically restricted for 1 to 4 weeks depending on your specific condition.
By your 6-week follow-up, most patients have fully healed and can return to normal activities including moderate exercise. Our team will assess the wound, interrogate the device, and adjust pacemaker settings if needed.
Modern pacemakers are designed to last 8 to 15 years before the battery needs replacing. You should carry your pacemaker identity card at all times and inform all healthcare providers that you have a device. Most household appliances, mobile phones, and airport security scanners are safe — our team will provide a comprehensive list of precautions at discharge.
Pacemaker implantation has an excellent safety profile and a transformative impact on quality of life. The vast majority of patients experience immediate relief from symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and fatigue.
I had been fainting without warning for months and was terrified to leave the house alone. After my pacemaker was implanted at Rhythm Medicity, I have not had a single episode. The team explained everything so clearly and made me feel completely at ease.
— Ramesh, 68, retired teacher
I was breathless climbing even one flight of stairs. Within weeks of my CRT device being implanted, I was walking in the park every morning. The follow-up care here is exceptional — I feel genuinely looked after.
— Sunita, 57, homemaker
Our cardiac team tracks procedural success rates, complication rates, and patient-reported outcomes to ensure we consistently deliver the highest standard of care.
No. Pacemaker implantation is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, not general anaesthesia. It does not involve opening the chest. Most patients are discharged within 24 to 48 hours and recover quickly.
You may notice a small, firm lump under the skin near your collarbone initially. Over time, most patients become completely unaware of the device. You will not feel the electrical impulses it delivers.
Yes. Modern pacemakers are well-shielded against everyday electromagnetic interference. It is advisable to keep your mobile phone at least 15 cm from the device. Microwave ovens, televisions, and most household appliances are safe.
Most pacemaker batteries last between 8 and 15 years, depending on how frequently the device is used. When the battery nears depletion, a simple generator replacement procedure is performed and the leads are usually left in place.
Yes. After the initial recovery period of typically 4 to 6 weeks, most patients can resume regular exercise, travel including air travel, and all normal daily activities. Always inform airport security staff that you have a pacemaker.
The cost varies depending on the type of device selected, the complexity of the procedure, and the duration of hospital stay. Our team will provide a transparent, itemised cost estimate during your consultation. Please contact our cardiac care coordinators for a personalised quote.
In most cases, yes. Pacemaker implantation for medically indicated conditions such as symptomatic bradycardia or heart block is covered by the majority of health insurance policies. Our billing team will assist you with documentation and claims support.
Our expert cardiac team at Rhythm Medicity is here to guide you through every step, from your first consultation to long-term follow-up care.
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