Pacemaker Implantation - Aftercare

In most cases, a pacemaker implantation is performed in connection with a short in-patient stay. Directly after the operation, a sandbag is typically placed on the operated area for 4-6 hours. During the first 2 days, you should keep your arm in a state of complete rest; after about 1 week you can resume normal arm movements. Showering is generally possible again after about 10 days.

The first pacemaker check-up occurs on the first day after the operation.⁴ Thereafter, you should have your pacemaker inspected every 6 months. During these sessions, battery depletion can be recognised early and the pacemaker can be reprogrammed if necessary.³

With a pacemaker, you can resume sports activities after consulting with your doctor. You should only avoid those types of activities in which you may experience direct blows to your pacemaker.

Electrical devices generally present no danger to the pacemaker. Metal detectors normally do not disrupt the functioning of the pacemaker. However, you should avoid coming near transformers and power stations. When making calls with your cell phone, you should place the phone to the ear opposite your pacemaker if possible. It is also important that you notify personnel about your pacemaker during medical examinations. The strong magnetic field used in MRI examinations may influence your pacemaker, for example. Upon your release, you will receive a pacemaker ID card which contains important information regarding the functions and fabrication of the device. You should always carry this card with you.^1,3,5

Please speak with the doctor who is treating you about these and further individual aftercare measures.