$Unique_ID{BRK01671}
$Pretitle{Circulatory System}
$Title{Why is a Temporary Pacemaker Used?}
$Subject{pacemaker temporary}
$Volume{G-3}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Why is a Temporary Pacemaker Used?


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QUESTION:  The reports from my father's doctor are encouraging, but I would
like to know why a "temporary pacemaker" was used?  Would you please explain
this for me?  Thank you.

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ANSWER:  The temporary pacemaker (or as it is called by many doctors,
temporary cardiac pacing) is used for many serious situations that create
abnormal beating of the patient's heart.
     At times, temporary pacemakers can be lifesaving yet they are also
helpful in cases of diagnosing abnormalities of the heart.
     Specifically, temporary cardiac pacing concerns electrical stimulation to
the muscles in the wall of the heart for relatively short periods of time.
     The purpose of temporary pacing, is to quickly establish normal rhythm to
the beating of the heart, gaining time for the testing and evaluation
necessary to determine the best treatment for the patient over the long hall.
     Before temporary cardiac pacing is utilized, doctors make very careful
and detailed evaluations of a patient including--among other things--his/her
symptoms and/or illnesses; the medicines he/she may be taking; the location of
the present difficulties with his/her heart; if the patient has high blood
pressure; congestive heart failure; and if permanent pacing might be necessary
instead of a temporary effort.
     Pacing may be accomplished in a variety of ways, through the skin;
through the esophagus; using the veins; and through the chest cavity.
Usually, the least invasive manner of placing a pacemaker in the body is used.
"Least invasive" means with as little cutting or other disturbances to the
body as possible while completing the needed procedure in the most effective
and efficient way.
     All of those forms of temporary pacing can be helpful in short-term
pacing therapy but the placement of a "permanent" pacemaker usually requires
some surgical measures.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
