Pacemaker / Defibrillator Testing and Monitoring Available at Mercy

The cardiologists of The Heart Center at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland have advanced training to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease. Our doctors provide evaluation and monitoring of pacemakers to help regulate the heart beat.

What is a Pacemaker?

When the heart has irregular rhythms, a pacemaker may be inserted into the body to help regulate the heart beat. There are two basic types of pacemakers – those that trigger the chambers of the heart (standard), and those that are a combination defibrillator and pacemaker. The standard pacemaker sends an electrical impulse that replaces the heart’s own rhythm and the defibrillator/pacemaker device delivers electrical impulses as well as sends a shock when necessary to stop a potentially dangerous heart rhythm. 

Surgery is required to implant a pacemaker, and following insertion, it should be regularly tested and monitored. 

Who should receive a Pacemaker Evaluation?

Anyone experiencing irregular heart rhythm should consult with their primary care physician, who may refer them to a heart specialist. The specialist will perform diagnostic screening tests to determine the underlying cause of the irregularity and, if appropriate, may recommend a pacemaker to improve the heart’s performance.

How is a Pacemaker and Defibrillator Monitored?

Patients who have a pacemaker or defibrillator implanted should have it tested and monitored by their doctor regularly. A doctor will recommend initial testing of the newly implanted device 4-6 weeks after surgery. Regular testing may be recommended every 3-6 months after that.

Your doctor will use an external device (PRM) to check the overall function and battery life of the pacemaker or defibrillator. Your doctor can make small adjustments to your implanted device from the PRM to improve the overall function of the pacemaker or defibrillator.