Sydämentahdistinta

A sydämentahdistin, or pacemaker in English, is a small electronic device that helps regulate the heart's rhythm. It is implanted in individuals who experience slow or irregular heartbeats, a condition known as bradycardia or arrhythmia. The device is typically placed under the skin, usually in the chest area, and connected to the heart by thin wires called leads.

The pacemaker monitors the heart's electrical activity. When it detects that the heart rate is too slow or has missed a beat, it sends out tiny electrical impulses to stimulate the heart muscle to contract. This ensures that the heart pumps blood effectively throughout the body. Modern pacemakers are sophisticated and can adapt to the patient's activity levels, increasing the heart rate during exercise and slowing it down during rest.

The implantation procedure is minimally invasive and is usually performed under local anesthesia. Patients with pacemakers can generally lead normal lives, though they may need to take certain precautions, such as avoiding strong magnetic fields. Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor the pacemaker's function and battery life, which typically lasts for several years. The development of pacemakers has significantly improved the quality of life and survival rates for many individuals with heart rhythm disorders.