After the implantation of a pacemaker or a defibrillator, each daily activity to which the patient is exposed again usually generates a large number of questions about its compatibility with his new implanted device. The quick answer is that you can lead a completely normal life, although some precautions should be kept in mind.
During the first days after the implant, the main attention is directed to the care of the surgical wound, which does not differ from that of other interventions. The implantation team will give you all kinds of details and you will be able to resolve any questions with them both during admission and during the usual follow-up visits.
Being a carrier of a cardiac stimulation device does not require any specific restrictions regarding diet, medication or physical, sporting or sexual activity, beyond those recommended by your underlying pathologies. Once the first weeks have passed, after the surgical wound has healed, the patient will be able to completely resume their previous activity. Doubts about fitness to drive vehicles after the implant are common, and in most cases a temporary restriction of 2 weeks after surgery is recommended, although it is recommended to consult with your doctor about the possibility of additional restrictions in each particular case. .
Other issues frequently raised by our patients is the potential for interference with everyday electronic objects. Household appliances (including microwaves and induction cooktops) and household tools can be used normally as long as they are in good condition, plugged into a grounded outlet, and operated at a normal operating distance. It is recommended to avoid direct contact of devices such as mobile phones on the implantation area of the pacemaker or defibrillator generator (for example, avoiding placing them in a shirt or jacket pocket). On the other hand, normal use of the mobile phone is allowed, trying to place it on the ear opposite to the implant site. The anti-theft detectors present in stores do not affect the operation of implantable cardiac devices, and it is recommended as a precaution to avoid stopping when passing by them. The metal detectors used in security checkpoints generate an electromagnetic field of a certain intensity, so it is recommended to avoid passing through them and identify yourself to security personnel as a wearer of a pacemaker.
Finally, questions may arise regarding the possibility of undergoing various diagnostic or therapeutic medical procedures. For diagnostic imaging, special attention should be paid to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), although most devices implanted in recent years are compatible when specifically programmed. The electrocautery device used in many surgical procedures can interfere with the functioning of a pacemaker or defibrillator, so in some cases, programming of the device prior to surgery may be necessary.
In short, pacemakers and defibrillators can treat a wide variety of heart rhythm disorders in such a way that a large part of patients will be able to lead a normal life practically forgetting that they have them implanted.
By Dr. Ángel Miracle, specialist of the Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Unit