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Cardiac pacemaker insertion

In this procedure, your surgeon will place a small electronic device, called a pacemaker, into your chest to help regulate your heartbeat. Modern pacemakers are about the size of a small matchbox. They send electrical pulses to your heart to keep it beating at a steady pace and to stop it from going too slow.

Reviewed by Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist

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What does a pacemaker insertion involve?

Inserting a cardiac pacemaker takes 30 minutes to an hour. The procedure can be carried out under local anaesthetic. Your consultant cardiologist will make a small incision below your collar bone. They will then feed electrical leads (pacing wires) to your heart through a vein. You may need one, two, or three of these wires. The wires are then connected to the pacemaker generator, which controls these wires and contains the pacemaker battery.

Once fitted, the pacemaker can detect if your heart is beating abnormally. When needed, the pacemaker will send electrical pulses to your heart to regulate your heartbeat. After the device has been fitted, the way it operates can be adjusted by your consultant or their team. Modern pacemakers usually have a battery life of ten to twelve years. 

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Why choose Cromwell Hospital?

We have a team of highly experienced cardiologists who have developed their skills and knowledge working at some of London's leading NHS teaching hospitals.

Our cardiologists work collaboratively to combine their expertise. Working together, they will tailor your care to your needs. 

Our diagnostic service uses the latest technology and an on-site laboratory for speedy test results.

We move fast. If you get in touch, we can offer a consultation to assess your case the next day.

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Who is suitable for a pacemaker insertion?

Your consultant cardiologist may recommend that you have a pacemaker fitted if you have problems with your heart that do not respond to medication. This could include: 

  • you have heart block, a condition that causes disruption to the electrical signals that control your heartbeat leading to your heart beating too slowly
  • your heart is beating too slowly
  • you have experienced heart failure

If you have heart problems, a pacemaker can significantly improve your quality of life, giving you the confidence to do the activities you enjoy. For some people, it can be lifesaving.

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Contact our Self-Pay team

We offer a range of self-pay package options, including flexible Hospital Packages and all-inclusive Fixed Price Packages.

Request an appointment >

+44 (0)20 7244 4886

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What is the recovery period?

Most patients who have a cardiac pacemaker inserted at Cromwell Hospital choose to spend a night in one of our comfortable, private rooms being cared for by our recovery team.  

In the days after the procedure, you may experience some discomfort in your shoulder. We recommend that you take care moving your shoulder for up to six weeks. After that you should be able to return to all your normal activities, including sports and exercise.

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Clear self-pay options

We understand that paying for your own treatment is a big decision. That's why we offer two transparent self-pay packages, so you can choose the option that works best for you.

Fixed price package

Treatment from £18,905
All-inclusive pricing with no hidden costs:
  • Pre-admission tests
  • Private ensuite room
  • Theatre procedure including prothesis
  • Professional fees (surgical and anaesthetics)
  • Meals, nursing care and discharge medication
  • No extra cost for additional unplanned stay
  • Return to theatres if complications arise

(Please see package terms and conditions for further details).

When enquiring, please quote K6000 (single chamber) or K6010 (dual chamber).

Hospital price package

Treatment from £15,715
Includes:
  • Pre-admission tests
  • Private ensuite room (nights subject to package terms)
  • Theatre procedure
  • Meals, nursing care, and discharge medication

Consultant and other fees will apply.

Ready to take the first step?

Call our self-pay team on ‭+44 (0)20 7244 4886‬

Consultants offering this package:

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Please note - regrettably we are unable to answer specific medical questions or offer medical advice via email or telephone.