Pacemakers and defibrillators
Content provided by Healthwise
Pacemakers and defibrillators
Pacemakers and defibrillators are devices that are sometimes needed to keep the heart beating regularly. People who have tachycardias, atrial fibrillation, and other types of abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias) may sometimes need to have one of these devices surgically implanted in their bodies.
These devices include:
- Pacemakers, which are small battery-powered devices that send out weak electrical impulses to the heart to help it maintain a regular beat. Pacemakers can stimulate the heart to beat faster if the heart rate gets too slow.
- Intracardiac defibrillators, which can deliver a small electrical shock to the heart if the heartbeat becomes very fast.
Credits
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 25, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
