Lake Champlain Cardiology Associates
52 Tom Miller Rd., Plattsburgh, NY 12901  (518) 563-2404
www.lccahearts.com

Pacemakers and Defibrillators

What is the Difference?

Pacemakers and defibrillators are both implantable devices that treat electrical heart problems- also known as heart rhythm disorders. The heart has a complex electrical system that generates every heart  beat. Malfunctions of that system can result in either an abnormally rapid heart  beat or abnormally slow one. Rapid heart  beats generally are more serious and can result in cardiac arrest and death if not corrected promptly. Defibrillators can correct rapid heart  beats by delivering a powerful shock to restore a normal heart beat, and can thus prevent a cardiac arrest. They are usually implanted in weak or damaged hearts. Pacemakers on the other hand prevent slow heart beats by delivering very small electrical impulses repeatedly, generating a heart beat with every small impulse. All defibrillators contain a pacemaker (so they can correct both slow and rapid heart beats), but they are larger and much more complex than pacemakers. Pacemakers on the other hand cannot treat rapid heart   beats or prevent a cardiac arrest. Both devices are implanted under the skin using local anesthesia and mild sedation. Pacemakers generally last longer than defibrillators, although both need replacement every few years. Although not perfect, these devices are extremely sophisticated and reliable to treat heart rhythm disorders. For more information about these devices or heart rhythm disorders in general, please visit the Heart Rhythm Society website at www.HRSonline.org/patientinfo.