Kordstimulering

Kordstimulering, also known as cardiac pacing, is a medical procedure that uses electrical impulses to regulate or maintain a normal heart rhythm. It is most commonly employed when a person's heart beats too slowly, a condition called bradycardia, or when the heart's electrical signals are blocked, disrupting the coordinated contraction of the heart chambers. The primary goal of kordstimulering is to ensure adequate blood flow throughout the body by preventing the heart rate from dropping too low.

The most common method involves the implantation of a pacemaker, a small electronic device typically placed under the skin near the collarbone. Wires, called leads, are then threaded through veins into the heart chambers. These leads sense the heart's electrical activity and deliver precisely timed electrical pulses to stimulate the heart muscle to contract. Modern pacemakers are sophisticated and can be programmed to adjust the pacing rate based on the patient's activity level, ensuring the heart beats faster during exercise and slows down during rest.

Kordstimulering can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing symptomatic bradycardia, alleviating symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, fainting, and shortness of breath. While the procedure itself carries some risks, such as infection or lead dislodgement, it is generally considered safe and effective. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the pacemaker's function and battery life. In some cases, temporary pacing may be used in emergency situations before a permanent solution is implemented.