Implantable Devices

Surgically implanted devices can be used to control the rhythm of your heart, improve your heart’s ability to pump blood, or prevent blood clots from entering your bloodstream. Depending on your condition, your health care team may recommend a:

• Pacemaker
• Left ventricular assist device (LVAD)
• Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
• Closure implant, such as a Watchman™
• Loop recorder
• Other device

Pacemakers

You may need a pacemaker after a heart attack to help your heart have a normal rhythm. A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device that is placed under the skin in your chest.

Your doctor may recommend the placement of an LVAD if your heart needs help pumping blood. An LVAD is a mechanical, battery-operated pumping device. Getting an LVAD can help prevent the need for a heart transplant.

If you have an irregular heart rhythm, having an ICD placed in your chest or abdomen can help treat it. An ICD is a battery-powered device that tracks your heart rate and can correct its rhythm if needed.

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a type of arrhythmia where your heart beats irregularly. If you have AFib that isn’t caused by a heart valve problem, also called non-valvular AFib, your doctor may recommend getting a Watchman device instead of taking the blood thinning medication Warfarin. A Watchman can reduce your risk of having a stroke.