Let's learn about the special pacemaker (Biventricular Pacemaker) that is implanted for people with weak hearts!

Has your doctor told you that your heart function is weak, meaning you have heart failure? Are you feeling so tired and short of breath that you can't do your daily activities? Your doctor may have also told you about a pacemaker. Today we're talking about a similar, but slightly different, device that can be very helpful for people with very weak heart function. That's the Biventricular Pacemaker.

Simply put, what is this Biventricular Pacemaker?

A biventricular pacemaker is a small device that is surgically implanted inside the body, just like a regular pacemaker, to help control abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). However, the main difference is the number of wires connected to it.

Imagine, a normal pacemaker has one or two wires. But this Biventricular Pacemaker has three wires . This is very important. Because of these three wires, one is connected to the upper right chamber of the heart (Right Atrium), and the other two wires are connected to the two main chambers (Ventricles) at the bottom of the heart.

Now, look, in a heart attack, sometimes the two lower chambers (ventricles) of your heart don't contract at the same time, in the same rhythm. It's like two people rowing a boat instead of rowing in opposite directions, but when one person finishes rowing, the other person takes over. Then the boat doesn't move forward properly, right? That's how it is. When the two chambers of the heart don't work together, it's very difficult for the heart to pump the amount of oxygen-rich blood the body needs.

Who needs this device?

Usually, a doctor recommends a device like this for certain reasons. Let's see what they are.

• If you are unable to control your symptoms with the medications prescribed to control your heart condition.
• If you are unable to perform daily tasks properly due to excessive fatigue and difficulty breathing (dyspnea).
• If your heart is not pumping enough blood to your body.
• If tests like an ECG confirm that the heart chambers are not working together.
• If the doctor determines that there is a risk to life due to sudden cardiac arrest.

Difference between CRT-P and CRT-D

Here's something else you need to know. Some people have a Biventricular Pacemaker (CRT-P) along with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) that can control a dangerously fast heart rate. This device is called a CRT-D . This detects when the heart is beating too fast and delivers a small electrical shock to restore the heart's rhythm. This can save someone from sudden death. Your doctor will decide which type you need.

What are the benefits and potential risks of installing this device?

As with any medical treatment, there are benefits as well as minor risks. It is important to have a clear understanding of these.

Are there any cases where this device cannot be installed?

Yes, this may not be suitable for some people. For example, if there is an active infection in the body, a bleeding disorder, or another serious illness that could be life-threatening within a year, the doctor may not recommend this surgery.

What should you be careful about after having a pacemaker inserted?

It's like a part of your body, so you need to take care of it.

Medical check-ups (Follow-ups)

You will need to see your doctor a few times a year. During these visits, he or she will check your health, make sure your device is working properly, check the battery, and check for software updates . You may also be asked to do monthly remote check-ups from home.

How do you know there is a problem?

If your symptoms (fatigue, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath) return as before, call your doctor immediately. Sometimes the device may beep. If you have a CRT-D, you should also report it immediately if you feel an electric shock .

Devices to stay away from

This is very important. You should stay away from things that have strong magnetic fields, as they can interfere with the signals from your pacemaker.

• Cell phones and headphones: When talking on the phone, hold it to the ear opposite the pacemaker. It is best to use a speaker phone. Never carry the phone or headphones in a shirt pocket.
• Metal Detectors: These can set off alarms in places like airports. So always carry your pacemaker ID card with you and show it to security personnel to request a special check.
• Other medical devices: If you need to have any other surgery, MRI scan, treatment for kidney stones, TENS therapy for pain, or radiation therapy for cancer, you should definitely inform your cardiologist in advance.

It's normal to feel a little scared and anxious when you're told that you need a pacemaker for a heart condition that medication alone isn't enough. But the relief and benefits that this device can bring to your life are many. So, if you have any questions or concerns about this, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.

Biventricular Pacemaker, Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy, CRT, Heart Failure, Pacemaker, Heart Disease, Breathing Difficulty